New 10-Digit Dialing Procedure and Area Code Introduced to East Tennessee
Introduction of New Area Code
East Tennessee, a region blessed with a mix of city life and suburban tranquility, is gearing up to adapt to a significant telecommunications change. The region, currently recognized under the 423 area code, is preparing to welcome a new addition – the 729 area code. This new change comes as a result of a decision by the Tennessee Public Utility Commission. The new 729 code will overlay the same 423 area, marking it as Tennessee’s eighth area code.
Establishment of 10-Digit Dialing
The addition of the 729 area code brings along with it a significant change in the dialing process. East Tennessee’s residents now need to embrace the practice of 10-digit dialing for local calls. The transition to this new dialing pattern will take effect fully by February 5, 2025, after which all local calls within the current 423 area will mandatorily require the dialing of 10 digits.
However, to prepare residents for this shift, a phased approach is set to start from August 5. During this phase, callers can choose to dial either seven or ten digits, including the area code, for local calls. But post-February 2025, any calls dialed using only seven digits will not be completed.
Implications of the New Area Code and Dialing Pattern
Understandably, such a drastic change may induce a range of questions and concerns in the minds of locals. In response to this, the commission has highlighted some important points for the residents:
- The introduction of the new 729 area code will not impact any current 423 numbers, and they will remain unaltered.
- There is no proposed increase in local call tariffs because of the transition to the new dialing pattern.
- Emergency and three-digit service lines, such as 911, 988, and 311, will remain unaffected by this change.
- The new 729 numbers plan to be issued is set to commence in March.
Preparation for the Shift
To ease this shift, the commission recommends residents to recheck and update their automatic dialing services, such as medical monitoring systems, speed dialers, and call-forwarding systems, to include the new area code where necessary.
While this change may initially seem daunting, residents are reminded of their adaptability and resilience in the face of change. After all, as they say, Change is the only constant. So, East Tennessee, ready or not, the ‘729’ is coming!
