PUC Looks For New Area Code for 814

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission will launch a series of public hearings later this month on the best way to bring new numbers to the 814 area code. PUC Spokesperson Jennifer Kocher says the area code is expected to run out of new numbers by the third quarter of 2012. There are two plans being considered. One would divide the area code north and south with one half keeping the 814 area code and the other half getting a new number. Depending on where the line is drawn the plan would create regions that will not run out of numbers for 14-24 years. The other plan is to “overlay” a new area code on the same geographic area currently assigned 814 numbers. Kocher says the overlay plan is preferred by the industry but the PUC wants to take public input before making a decision. The overlay is expected to create 20 years of new numbers. Kocher says the PUC does not have a statutory deadline it must meet but it wants to work as quickly as possible to make sure residents and businesses have time to prepare for the new area code. The public hearings will be held this month and next at the following locations and times:
6 p.m. Feb. 22, 2010
Ramada Inn, Ballroom C
1 Sheraton Drive
Altoona
6 p.m. Feb. 23, 2010
Richland Township Events & Conference Center
176 Mount Airy Drive
Johnstown
6 p.m. Feb. 24, 2010
Ramada Inn, Grand Ballroom
1450 South Atherton Street
State College
6 p.m. Feb. 25, 2010
Quality Inn & Suites
8040 Perry Highway
Erie
6 p.m. March 4, 2010
Somerset Fire Company
340 West Union Street
Somerset