TO: EDITORS, NEWS DIRECTORS

DATE: November 9, 1998

FOR: IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Perry Baker (602) 542-0844

ACC TO RULE ON INNOVATIVE NEW AREA CODE SERVICE FOR MARICOPA COUNTY

 During an open public meeting set for November 18^th, 1998, at 10:00am, the Arizona Corporation Commission will be asked to chose a method for implementing an additional telephone area code in Maricopa County.

Over one-half of all telephone numbers are in the 602 calling area, and with the increasing demand for new lines, second lines, computer modems, fax machines and wireless service, it is projected that all available numbers will be used up by the middle of 1999.

After numerous public hearings throughout the county, a professional consumer survey and the solicitation of written comments from the public, the ACC staff has recommended that the Commission adopt an innovative solution to this problem.

The staff has recommended the Commission adopt an "Overlay" rather than the traditional "Geographic Split" that was used in the 1993 introduction of the 520 area code. An "Overlay" would mean that all existing customers will keep their current 10-digit number with the 602 area code, with new customers receiving a 10-digit number with a new area code. The "Overlay" would also avoid the costs associated with existing customers having to change their area code under the "Geographic Split" method that has been utilized in the past, and, the "Overlay" becomes a long-term solution: As future demand exhaust a number, new area codes are simply placed over the affected areas, without disrupting existing service.

The staff recommendation must now go to the Corporation Commissioners for an open public hearing and vote before they can be finalized.