Scarnati, Gabler Ask PUC to
Hold Meeting on Area Code in DuBois

Senator Joe Scarnati and Representative Matt Gabler announced today that they have recently been in contact with the Public Utility Commission (PUC) in regard to proposed changes to the 814 area code coverage. With the recent rise in cell phone usage, the PUC is studying options to address a potential shortage in phone numbers for the 814 area code.

One plan being reviewed would create a new 582 area code for use in some parts of Northwestern Pennsylvania. Another option would be an “overlay” plan which would allow those now using a phone number with an 814 area code to keep their current number, while assigning the new 582 area code to new phones throughout the region.

Both men have asked the PUC to hold a public hearing on the issue in DuBois within the next few months. The PUC has agreed to hold such a hearing and is currently coordinating the logistics.

“This is an issue of vital importance to residents and businesses located within the 25th Senatorial District,” said Scarnati. “I am glad the PUC has agreed to listen to the voice of the people potentially affected by this situation before making a decision on the matter.”

"I am very glad that the PUC has agreed to take another look at their plan for the future of the 814 area code” said Gabler. “The ability of people to communicate efficiently and effectively is of vital importance to the quality of life and economy of our region.” He continued, “We must make every effort to consider the potential consequences any plan may have on jobs, commerce, and the ability of local citizens to find and access the essential services and businesses in our communities as well as their families, friends and neighbors."

Scarnati and Gabler both said they would inform the public when the PUC has set a date and location for the hearing. Both men plan to attend the hearing to hear their constituents’ thoughts and ideas on the issue.

Comments

T.E.A.(Taxed Enough Already) Member said…
The "Public" Utility Commission WILL Do Whatever THEY Want! Thank You, Sen. Scarniti & Rep. Gabler! Hope "Our" Other Local Reps Get "ON Board" SOON!
Most of rural Pennsylvania never knows about these hearings until they are over and decisions are made. Residents of the cities where the hearings were held did not respond or didn't know about them. The only reasonable solution to this problem is an overlay. New phones would get the new area code numbers. Businesses would not have to replace all their printing needs, signs, websites, etc. Callers would have to dial 3 more numbers for the new phones, but so what. Existing numbers would stay the same and toll zones would remain the same, regardless of the area codes. The overlay method is the only way to have everyone happy with this change. To do otherwise would only create a Steelers against Packers competition between Erie and Altoona.

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