Public comments sought on new area code implementation

WAVY.com has reported that area code 804 will likely run out of numbers in 2024. This will necessitate a new area code for “portions of Central Virginia and the Northern Neck, including Gloucester County and Mathews County. . .” (Source: “804” area code projected to run out, public comment invited for plan ).

The North American Numbering Plan Administrator's proposal is for the Virginia State Corporation Commission to “approve an all-services distributed overlay of a new area code as the form of relief for the 804 area code.” (Source: SCC Ex Parte: In the matter of the Commission's investigation into exhaust relief for the 804 area code (PDF)). Further,

According to NANPA, the relief provided by any overlay approach will last approximately 32 years. Under this approach, all existing customers would retain the 804 area code and would not have to change their telephone numbers.

The public is invited to comment on the proposal; the deadline for comments is August 17. Submit comments for PUR-2022-00083, SCC Ex Parte: In the matter of the Commission's investigation into exhaust relief for the 804 area code on the SCC website or via mail (Clerk of the Commission, c/o Document Control Center, P.O. Box 2118, Richmond, Virginia 23218-2118. All comments shall refer to Case No. PUR-2022-00083.)