What are some of the pros and cons of a geographic split?
Pro: Ten-digit dialing is necessary when calling another area code or when making a toll call. Pro: Area codes have a geographic identity. People can get an idea of where a business or individual is located by looking at their area code. Con: Existing telephone numbers change — approximately half of the people have to change their telephone numbers. Each time there is a geographic split, businesses have to pay to reprint all of their literature, promotional items, stationery and business cards to include the new number. Con: As more and more numbers are used up and as the state continues to grow, the “slicing and dicing” of a specific area will continue. Geographic splits are not long-term solutions and future area code relief must be undertaken. For example, the Chicago metro area used to be served by just the 312 area code.
