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Consumers using the 219 area code may be forced to switch area codes.
The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission reported that the supply of phone numbers for the 219 area code is quickly running out.
There are a number of reasons why the 219 area code is in jeopardy, the IURC said.
An increased growth in the use of services such as fax machines, pagers, cellular phones, the Internet, second residential phone lines and competing local telephone companies are causing number depletion.
As a result of this increase, the IURC reports three possible solutions: number conservation, a geographic split and an overlay.
Number conservation would increase efficiency in number usage. For example, numbers could be allocated to telecommunication companies in blocks of 1,000, rather than the current practice of allocating 10,000 number blocks. This would be only a partial and temporary solution.
Delaying the addition of a new area code into the current 219 area code may allow for less disruption due to future technological advances and allow consumers sufficient time to prepare for the inevitable need for a new number.
The second possible solution is a geographic split. The current area code would be split into two or three parts. One part keeps the current area code (219) and the second and/or third parts would be assigned new area code numbers.
This option would maintain seven-digit dialing for local calls, but would require some consumers to change their area code, while others keep the current digits - 219.
The third possible solution is adding a new area code that overlays the entire geographic area covered by the 219 area code.
Existing customers retain their area code and phone number, but new customers are assigned a new area code. The overlay would not change local (free) or toll (charge) calling areas.
But all customers with either 219 or the new overlay area code would need to dial 10 or 11 digits, even when making a local phone call.
It is not yet known when this change in area code will take place. But the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor says the change will take place. The OUCC said, "It's simply a matter of when it will happen and what it will look like."
Consumers are asked to consider these possibilities and encouraged to voice their opinions.
The decision before consumers is whether they want to keep their current 219 area code and be required to dial 10 or 11 numbers for local calls or change their area code to accommodate new customers in the area.
Requiring some consumers to change their area code would allow all area consumers to dial only seven digits for local numbers.
Either way, long distance billing is not an issue for consumers. It is simply whether or not consumers want to keep their area code and dial more numbers for local calls or switch their area code to maintain the current seven-digit local call dialing for all area consumers.
The OUCC is urging consumers to make their voice heard.
"It is impossible to solve this problem in a way that satisfies everyone," the OUCC said.
To arrive at a working solution, the OUCC would like to provide the IURC with the best information possible.
Part of presenting thorough information to the IURC involves consumers. The OUCC is asking consumers to fill out a 12-question survey revealing their opinions on the area code dilemma.
To receive this survey, contact the OUCC toll free at 800-441-2494 or e-mail them at uccinfo@ucclan.state.in.us
Consumers can also visit the OUCC Web site at: www.state.in.us/oucc
