by Wes Harris
North Louisiana residents will soon have to dial extra numbers to complete their calls as a new area code is introduced in the area.
A new 457 area code is being introduced as an additional area code, not a replacement, in the existing 318 region, including Ruston, Monroe, Bossier City, Shreveport, Alexandria, and the surrounding area.
The Louisiana Public Service Commission said the “overlay” of an additional area code will not change any existing 318 phone numbers. Beginning September 25, newly assigned phone numbers in the region may begin with the 457 area code.
For now, the Louisiana Public Service Commission said phone calls can be made as usual by dialing either 7 or 10 digits to complete local calls. However, on August 25, all local calls must be dialed using the area code plus the 7-digit number. Calls made with just 7 digits will not go through.
For example, to check the time and temperature after August 25, you will have to dial 318-255-7722. Dialing 255-7722 will no longer work. The 10-digit number is necessary to distinguish between the two area codes—318 and 457—in use in the region.
The Public Service Commission reported the change is necessary to ensure a continuing supply of phone numbers in the growing 318 region.
