Public Service Commission: Postpones new area code addition

Contact: Teresa Weidemann-Smith, (608) 266-9600

MADISON – The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) today took steps to postpone the implementation of the 274 area code in eastern Wisconsin, from 2012 to 2014.

The PSC previously directed that a new area code, 274, be “overlaid” on the existing 920 area code to ensure that an adequate supply of telephone numbers remain available for assignment throughout that part of the state. However, a combination of effective number conservation measures and the current economic conditions have extended the anticipated life of the 920 area code to mid-2014, making it appropriate to postpone the implementation of the new 274 area code.

“With an area code overlay, all local calls have to be dialed using 10 digits. This postponement ensures that customers living in the 920 area code are not subject to these dialing changes earlier than needed,” said PSC Chairperson Eric Callisto. “While ultimately necessary, the new area code overlay comes with expense and inconvenience that need not occur in the near future as the result of this welcome delay in the area code change.”

The PSC has requested the North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) to convene a telecommunications industry meeting to consider a new implementation schedule for the 920/274 overlay which reflects the current exhaust date.