Infinity to Acquire S.F. Radio Station

Viacom Inc.’s Infinity Broadcasting radio unit said Monday that it would buy KEAR-FM in San Francisco from Family Stations Inc., a closely held company that broadcasts religious programs. In addition, Infinity plans to sell its two stations in San Jose.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Viacom said KEAR would become the company’s sixth San Francisco-area radio station. Infinity will sell the San Jose stations KBAY-FM and KEZR-FM, spokeswoman Karen Mateo said.

Adding to Infinity’s San Francisco radio stations and getting out of the San Jose market are part of Viacom’s plan to focus on its largest and most profitable markets.

Advertising sales at Infinity have stalled as some listeners switch to satellite radio and others listen to music through digital players such as Apple Computer Inc.’s iPod.

Infinity will change the format of KEAR after the purchase is completed, Mateo said. Oakland-based Family Stations began its religious broadcasts on KEAR in 1959, according to its website.

Shares of Viacom dropped 16 cents to $33.96 on the New York Stock Exchange.