Another Area Code

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin currently is exploring relief alternatives for the 920 area code. According to its Web site, "[t]he decision for the PSC is not whether to implement area code relief (a new area code must be introduced once an area code approaches exhaust), but how to implement it." Recent projections indicates our area code will run out of prefixes by mid-2010.

While an area code change is not new to Oshkosh, it seems the recommendation this time is to implement an overlay rather than a geographic split. This means a person would need to dial the area code and seven-digit phone number when calling within local dialing areas, including within the city. It also means that no one would need to change area codes.

The PSC will be conducting public hearings regarding the implementation of a new area code. A hearing will take place in Oshkosh on Wednesday, October 17th at 7:00 p.m. in room 404 at City Hall. If you cannot attend a hearing, you may file comments electronically.

Do you think our area code should be split (again) or should we go with an overlay this time? I look forward to your thoughts and discussion.

-Bryan