Is Evansville Getting a New Area Code?

Mayor Lloyd Winnecke encourages Evansville residents to attend a public hearing next week to learn about changes to the 812 area code. The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) will host the local hearing Tuesday, March 19th, at 6pm at Washington Middle School, 1801 Washington Ave.

The North American Numbering Plan Administrator predicts the 812 area code will run out of available phone numbers by March 2015. The area code serves 38 counties in Southern and Central Indiana. The shortage is caused by population growth, economic growth and the demand for new services, including cellphones.

The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) is being asked to consider two options. A geographic split would result in the existing area being divided into two or more area codes. An overlay option allows for a new area code to be assigned to new users within to the same geographic area.

More information about the 812 area code change is available online at www.in.gov/iurc/2703.htm.