New area code assigned to southern Indiana

FROM IDS REPORTS

Southern Indiana will have a new area code.

In late July, the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission approved the 930 area code, which will be given to new phone numbers after a 13-month grace period.

What area will be covered by 930?

The area code will be used in the same southern Indiana region that uses the 812 code now, which includes Bloomington and extends down to Evansville. Existing 812 numbers will not be affected, and the area code will not be split in two. Rather, both codes will serve residents of southern Indiana.

Why do we need a new area code?

Due to economic and population growth in the area, there just aren’t enough 812 phone numbers left, said Danielle McGrath, executive director of external affairs for the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission.
Organizations with rights to wide swaths of 812 numbers, like IU, will still be able to assign them.

What will happen in the meantime?

During the 13-month period, the regulatory commission and industry leaders will undertake a public education campaign.

- Michael Auslen