From the Trussville Tribune staff reports
BIRMINGHAM- The Alabama Public Service Commission has approved adding a new area code, 659, to the western central part of the state, as reported by AL.com.
The 659 number will not replace the more familiar 205 code, the two area codes will cover the same geographic area, although it is not yet known which cities or precise locations will be impacted by the change or when the change will occur.
Those with the 205 area code will not have to change their numbers, however once the second area code is implemented users will no longer have the option of making local calls by by dialing the seven-digit number. To connect calls, even local ones, individuals will be required to make use of the full ten-digit number.
According to reports, Neustar Inc.–the FCC’s Numbering Plan Administrator–is working with the state’s telecommunications businesses to implement the 659 code.