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New ‘737’ area code debuts this summer
Updated 02/06/2013 06:46 PM
By: Dan Robertson


With the population booming in Central Texas, state regulators are adding a new area code to accommodate the growth.

Starting in June, the 512 area code will need to be dialed to reach all local telephone numbers. If not, your call will not go through.

In July, the Public Utility Commission will begin assigning the 737 area code to new numbers throughout much of Central Texas.

"We're running out of numbers for the 512 area code," Terry Hadley with the Public Utility Commission said. “737 has been in the works for actually 10 years now and it’s now finally time to use it.”

Emergency calls will stay the same, and so will community service numbers like 211, 311 and 411. To call across the street however, be prepared to dial 10 digits.

"When I pick up my home phone or something else, I don't do 512,” Austinite Alan Duerr said. “It is going to take some getting used to."

Big Cities like Houston have had multiple area codes for years. Amy Tefrank says it's no big deal.

“You just dial three digits,” she said. “You just dial. It's simple."

Some new 512 numbers will remain—at least for a while.

"To the extent there's a 512 number available from your provider, you could ask for one if it makes any difference to you," Hadley said.

Beside updated your cell phone list, be sure to check other devices like fax machines and security systems.




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