Regulators approve new Wisconsin area codes
MADISON, Wis. (AP) New telephone customers in northern Wisconsin will get two new area codes.
According to projections, the 715 area code will run out of numbers in 2011 and the 920 area code will run out in 2012.
The Wisconsin Public Service Commission has been pondering whether to divide each region for a new area code, similar to how southeastern Wisconsin was divided into 414 and 262, or to give new customers in each region a new area code.
The commission voted 3-0 Thursday to go with new area codes for new customers. Members say that will save businesses the cost of changing their numbers on stationary, business cards and vehicles.
New customers could see the new numbers by mid-2010.
Nov 7, 2008 at 6:32 p.m.
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I was able to keep my phone number when I switched over to Charter phone service. Only thing is that if the power goes out, so does my land line phone. I do have a cell phone too
Nov 7, 2008 at 12:28 p.m.
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That's possible, janesvillecomments, but keep in mind that a family that once had one landline might now have 2, 3 or more cell phones -- one for each.
Nov 6, 2008 at 11:22 p.m.
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I think the growth of phone users in the 608 area code might be slightly offset by people dropping their land lines for cell phones. Also, are there any people who went with Charter IP phones that can let us know if they can keep their phone numbers when they switch?
Nov 6, 2008 at 9:43 p.m.
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I've bought up all the 608 numbers, and I've got them parked until the price rises, and I make a killing selling them off!
Nov 6, 2008 at 4:44 p.m.
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The PSC will deal with 608 in due time. There are enough area codes for the time being now that they allow them to end in "0", but the need for new numbers overall is expected to lead to a changeover to four-digit area codes around 2038 or so.
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There's no way that the SW region of Wisconsin, Madison inclusive, is experiencing comparable growth to the SE region. I wouldn't expect a new code to be needed here for 5-10 years at least.
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Keep in mind that when an overlay area code is introduced (covering the same geographic area), everyone has to start 10 or 11 digit dialing.
Nov 6, 2008 at 3:52 p.m.
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stationery
Nov 6, 2008 at 1:39 p.m.
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Did the article state anything about the 608 area code? Then I guess there is no concern yet.
Nov 6, 2008 at 12:31 p.m.
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What about the 608 area code - is it in danger of running out of numbers? It seems like the population of Dane County, Janesville/Beloit, LaCrosse, and everywhere in between would be similar to these other areas? Anybody know anything about that?
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