The Public Service Commission (PSC) of the District of Columbia is inviting comments at a meeting on the new telephone area code for the District of Columbia.
The virtual community hearing for the formal case is scheduled for September 1 at 2:00 p.m.
The North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA) projects that the supply of phone numbers starting with the 202 area code will run out in the third quarter of 2022.
As of May 26, 2020, the 202 NPA has 29 codes available for assignment. 17 codes were assigned in 2019.
To ensure there are enough telephone numbers to meet demand, NANPA is requesting PSC approve a petition for a new area code by the end of 2020, and approve a 13-month implementation schedule. The new area code would be introduced six months before the 202 numbers run out.
So far, there has been no indication what the new area code might be.
All existing customers would retain their 202 area code and would not have to change their telephone numbers. In the future, all local calls in the District will require callers to dial ten-digit numbers.
Those who wish to testify at either or both portions of the virtual community hearing should contact the Commission Secretary by the close of business August 24 by sending an email.
Representatives of organizations are permitted a maximum of five minutes for oral presentations; individuals are allowed up to three minutes for oral presentations.
If an organization or an individual is unable to offer comments at the virtual community hearing, written statements can be submitted electronically by email or on the Commission’s website by September 4.
