JEFFERSONVILLE, IN (WDRB) -- It covers nearly a third of Indiana. The 812 area code has been around since 1947. But the combinations for new numbers will run out by 2015.
Now the state of Indiana is searching for a solution. In short, there will be a new area code for the southern half of the state. But questions still remain: who will receive it and how will it be implemented? A series of public hearings put on by the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC)will guide the state in its decision.
A formal hearing held Monday night at Jeffersonville High School marked the third of 10 meetings scheduled for the region. Last week in Terre Haute, three residents signed up to voice their opinions. In Bloomington, the number grew to six. On this night in Jeffersonville - zero. Nada. Zilch.
One woman, Ceil Sperzel, attended the meeting - but only to listen.
"I'm just here collecting information to see which would cause us less trouble," Sperzel said.
The growth in cell phones is a driving factor for the need for a new area code. The state is considering two options: the overlay or the geographic split.
With the overlay, a new area code would lay over the same space as 812, but apply to only new customers. The overlay would also require people to dial all ten digits.
Anthony Swinger, a spokesman for the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, said with the geographic split "you literally draw a line through the area, everyone on one side keeps their current numbers. But on the other side, everyone changes to the new area code."
The geographic split was the more common practice before the overlay started to dominate after 2005, Swinger said.
Public input will be taken through May.
"I don't think it's a big deal everyone uses cell phones we've got so many area codes anyway," said Sheila Cole, an Indiana resident.
The empty seats at the meeting were sign her opinion is shared by others.
If you would like to voice your concerns or learn more visit: www.in.gov/iurc
A final decision by the state will likely be decided by the end of 2013. A 13-month phase in process will likely follow.
