ofsevit%ultra.DEC@decwrl.dec.com (David Ofsevit, 293-5062, BXB1-1/D03) (11/07/88)
In TELECOM 8:171 Paul Weiss mentions concerning area code 508: > (By the way, I understand that the town of Dover,MA has successfully > sued to be placed back in the 617 area code). They may have sued, but they certainly haven't been successful in being placed back in 617. Many of the communities on the 617-508 border have complained about being "exiled." What's different about Dover? It's the second wealthiest town in the state, with highly exclusionary zoning and no business district of its own. It's mainly a bedroom community for executives who work in 617, and they and their families are *terribly* (emphasis added to indicate dripping sarcasm) put out at having to punch 4 extra digits. Rich folks really are different from you and me, and they can't imagine having ever having to be treated equally. When in doubt, they sue. Only this time, they're up against an even wealthier adversary. By the way, I don't mean to make light of the real problems in the 508 startup, as Paul noted. David Ofsevit [The above message clearly represents my opinions only, I hope.] [Moderator's note: We are experiencing the very same thing here with the prospect of area code 708 coming to the Chicago suburbs next year. Some suburbanites are oh-so-put-upon by the idea they will have to dial eleven digits to reach the city. I am not enamored of dialing the same number to reach someone three blocks west of me in Lincolnwood, IL either, but that's life. 312 will continue to serve the city only. 815 will keep it's present boundaries. 708 will take over the rest of 312. P.Townson]