(Undated) - There will be 10 public hearings about the proposed change to the 812 area code.

At its current pace, the North American Numbering Plan Administrator expects the 812 area code to run out of available numbers by March 2015.

There are seven alternative plans to address bringing a new area code to southern Indiana, only one of which will be selected. One plan would allow all current 812 numbers to keep the same area code, while new numbers are assigned a new area code. This would result in the need for 10-digit dialing for all calls, local or long distance.

The other six alternatives would split southern Indiana into two different area codes, meaning that one half of the region would be required to abandon the 812 area code and switch to the new code.  The other half of the state would retain the 812 area code and gain all the former 812 numbers used in the region’s other half.

The three digits of the new area code are yet to be determined.

The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission plans to hold 10 meetings to gather public input before making a decision. One of the public hearings will be held in Saint Leon this spring.

Comments can also be submitted to the IURC through May 7 online or by mail. Written comments should reference IURC Cause No. 44233.

Online comments can be submitted at http://www.in.gov/iurc/2703.htm. Those sending written comments by mail should send to Consumer Services Staff, Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South, Indianapolis, IN 46204.

LINKS:

How Will The 812 Area Code Change Affect Me?

With 812 Running Slim, New Area Code Coming