NEW BRITAIN — If you’re getting a new phone number in Connecticut, get ready for a new area code. The new 959 area code is now being introduced in the calling region that the 860 area code serves, according to the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority.
PURA said the supply of telephone numbers in the 860 area code is exhausting because of the continuing demand for telephone numbers, resulting in the opening of the new 959 area code.
PURA approved the new 959 area code as an overlay to the 860 region to meet customer demand. This will not require customers to change their existing area code, personal telephone numbers, or the manner in which they dial calls.
Officials said they have been working with the telecommunications industry since mid-2013 to oversee the orderly implementation of the new 959 area code, and now it is ready.
For most customers, the new area code should have minimal impact:
- Existing telephone numbers, including current area code, will not change;
- Customers will continue to dial area code + telephone number for local calls, and 1 + area code + telephone number for long distance calls;
- Local calling areas will remain the same;
- Prices for calls and coverage areas will not change due to the overlay;
- Customers will still dial services such as 911 (211, 411, 811, etc.) with just three digits.
Customers should contact their respective carriers with questions about the new area code.
