TO: EDITORS, NEWS DIRECTORS

DATE: February 23, 1999

FOR: IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Perry Baker (602) 542-0844

UPDATE ON NEW AREA CODES

In the matter of new area codes for Maricopa County, the Corporation Commission utilities division has requested that the hearing division issue a Procedural Order to delay the start of permissive dialing until April 24, 1999, in line with the telecommunications industry's recent request. The hearing division will make a final ruling on the matter no later than Friday, February 26, 1999.

EDITORS NOTE: This matter does not require a vote of the three member Commission. The final decision will be made by the hearing officer.

Also note, the new area codes will remain 623 for West Valley, 602 for Central Phoenix and 480 for East Valley.