Issue of
January 28, 1998

Transition period ending for 650 area code calls

Beginning Feb. 1, all long-distance calls to Stanford will need the new (650) area code that was introduced last August when the old (415) code split to cope with the boom in cellular phones and other devices that demand telephone numbers. Communication Services asks that people notify off-campus callers that the transition period, when both codes could be used, has ended.

On Nov. 1, the (916) area code divided with the creation of a new (530) code. Sacramento, Carmichael and Roseville continue to use (916), while the more remote mountain and valley regions have adopted (530). The new area code covers Chico, Davis, Redding, Lake Tahoe and Yreka. Callers can use both codes until May 16, after which the split becomes permanent.

On March 14, the (510) code will also divide and many Contra Costa and Alameda county cities will get a new (925) code. Some of the cities affected by this are Concord, Livermore, Martinez, Orinda, Pittsburg, Pleasant Hill, Pleasanton, San Ramon and Walnut Creek. The transition period for this split ends Sept. 12. For further information about these area code changes, visit Communication Services' website at http://commserv.stanford.edu/CS.commnews.html or call the Help Line at 5-HELP.

­ Valerie Hanscom, Communication Services