lee@tis.com (Theodore Lee) (12/27/89)
I was surprised to see in the discussion over the new 310 area code that there are only nine (or will it be eight?) left. I knew it was tight, but I hadn't realized it was that tight. What are the predictions on when they will be used up and what is the plan then? [Moderator's Note: I believe the estimated date when all existing area codes *as we know them* will be used up is 1995. I think 1993 might be a better estimate. From that point on, area codes will resemble prefixes, and dialing 1 before long distance numbers everywhere will be mandatory. I've heard there is some consideration being given to also using 300-400-500-600-211-311-511 for area codes. That might stretch the supply another year or two, or even get us to 2000. There is nothing official on the use of the double zero or double one numbers at this time. PT]