The 659 area code is a relatively new addition to Alabama’s telecommunications network, introduced to meet the growing demand for phone numbers in central and western parts of the state. As an overlay to the well-known 205 area code, 659 helps ensure that residents and businesses in the region have access to the phone numbers they need without disrupting the existing setup. In this blog, we’ll explore the history, significance, and impact of the 659 area code, as well as its implications for those living and working in Alabama.
What is the 659 Area Code?
The 659 area code is part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) and serves as an overlay for the 205 area code region. This means that the 659 area code covers the same geographic area as the 205 area code, which includes major cities like Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, and Hoover, as well as numerous smaller towns and communities in central and western Alabama.
The introduction of the 659 area code allows for the continued issuance of new phone numbers in the region without requiring existing residents and businesses to change their current numbers. It was implemented to ensure that there are enough phone numbers available to meet the growing demand in the region, driven by population growth and the increasing number of devices requiring unique phone numbers.
Why Was the 659 Area Code Introduced?
The 659 area code was introduced as a proactive solution to address the exhaustion of available numbers under the 205 area code. With central Alabama experiencing significant growth in population, businesses, and telecommunications services, the demand for new phone numbers quickly outpaced the supply available under the 205 area code.
A Growing Demand for Numbers
The increasing use of cell phones, fax machines, and other telecommunications devices has contributed to the rapid depletion of available numbers. To prevent a shortage and avoid the complications that come with changing existing numbers, the Alabama Public Service Commission decided to implement an overlay plan, introducing the 659 area code as a solution.
Ensuring Continuity
The overlay plan allows residents and businesses to keep their existing 205 numbers, while new phone numbers are assigned with the 659 area code. This approach minimizes disruption and ensures that both existing and new customers can continue to operate smoothly within the same geographic region.
How the 659 Area Code Works
The introduction of the 659 area code brought some changes to how local calls are made within the 205/659 region. Here’s how it works:
Ten-Digit Dialing
With the implementation of the 659 overlay, ten-digit dialing became mandatory for all local calls within the region. This means that whether you’re dialing a 205 or a 659 number, you must include the area code followed by the seven-digit phone number. For example, instead of dialing 555-1234, you would need to dial 205-555-1234 or 659-555-1234.
No Changes to Existing Numbers
Existing numbers with the 205 area code remain unchanged. The 659 area code is simply used for new phone numbers being issued in the same geographic region. This means that residents and businesses with a 205 number can continue using their current number without any changes.
Coexistence of 205 and 659 Numbers
Because the 659 area code is an overlay, both 205 and 659 numbers coexist in the same geographic area. This means that two people living in the same neighborhood could have different area codes—one with a 205 number and the other with a 659 number—while still being local to each other.
Areas Covered by the 659 Area Code
The 659 area code serves the same geographic area as the 205 area code, covering central and western Alabama. This includes a diverse range of cities and communities, from large metropolitan areas to smaller towns.
Birmingham
As the largest city in Alabama, Birmingham is a major economic, cultural, and industrial hub. The 659 area code plays an important role here, providing new phone numbers for the city’s growing population and expanding business community. Whether you’re a local resident or a business owner, the 659 area code ensures that new numbers are available to meet your needs.
Tuscaloosa
Home to the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa is a city with a rich history and a vibrant college town atmosphere. The introduction of the 659 area code supports the city’s growth, accommodating the influx of students, faculty, and new businesses that call Tuscaloosa home.
Hoover
Known for its family-friendly environment and thriving retail sector, Hoover is one of the fastest-growing cities in Alabama. The availability of new numbers under the 659 area code is essential for supporting the city’s ongoing development and providing services to its residents and businesses.
Smaller Towns and Rural Areas
In addition to these major cities, the 659 area code also serves numerous smaller towns and rural communities throughout central and western Alabama. This includes places like Bessemer, Alabaster, and Northport, each contributing to the region’s unique character and identity.
The Impact of the 659 Area Code on Residents and Businesses
The introduction of the 659 area code has several implications for residents and businesses in the covered region. While it was primarily implemented to meet the growing demand for phone numbers, it has also brought about changes in how people communicate locally.
For Residents
- Adjustment to Ten-Digit Dialing: Residents must now use ten-digit dialing for all local calls, which can be an adjustment if you’re used to seven-digit dialing. However, this change ensures that calls are properly routed and helps prevent misdialing between 205 and 659 numbers.
- No Need to Change Existing Numbers: If you already have a 205 number, you can keep it. The introduction of the 659 area code does not require any changes to existing numbers, so there’s no need to update your contact information.
- Awareness of New Area Codes: As the 659 area code becomes more common, residents should be aware that they may receive calls from numbers with this area code. Being familiar with the 659 code can help you recognize local calls and avoid potential scams.
For Businesses
- Expansion Opportunities: The availability of new numbers under the 659 area code provides opportunities for businesses looking to expand in central and western Alabama. Whether you’re opening a new office, adding phone lines, or launching a new service, the 659 area code supports your growth.
- Customer Communication: Businesses need to update their contact information, marketing materials, and websites to reflect the new ten-digit dialing requirement. This ensures that customers can easily reach them, regardless of the area code they are calling from.
- Establishing a Local Presence: For businesses new to the area, having a 659 area code number can help establish a local presence and build trust with customers. People often feel more comfortable calling a local number, so choosing a 659 number can be beneficial for businesses looking to connect with the community.
Common Questions About the 659 Area Code
1. Do I have to change my current phone number to a 659 number?
No, existing phone numbers with the 205 area code will not change. The 659 area code is an overlay, meaning it only applies to new phone numbers being issued in the region.
2. Why is ten-digit dialing required?
Ten-digit dialing is required to ensure that calls are properly routed between the 205 and 659 area codes. This prevents confusion and misdialing, as both area codes cover the same geographic region.
3. Can I request a 659 area code number for my business?
Yes, if you’re establishing a new business or setting up additional phone lines, you can request a 659 area code number from your phone service provider. This can help establish a local presence in central and western Alabama.
4. How does the 659 area code affect local calls?
Local calls now require ten-digit dialing, meaning you must include the area code before the seven-digit phone number. This change applies to both 205 and 659 numbers within the region.
5. Is the 659 area code only for cell phones?
No, the 659 area code applies to all types of phone lines, including landlines, cell phones, and business lines. It is used for new numbers being issued in the central and western Alabama region.
The Future of the 659 Area Code
As Alabama continues to grow and develop, the 659 area code will play a crucial role in supporting the region’s telecommunications needs. Here’s what we can expect for the future:
Continued Population and Economic Growth
The central and western regions of Alabama, particularly cities like Birmingham and Tuscaloosa, are expected to continue growing in both population and economic activity. This growth will likely increase the demand for new phone numbers, making the 659 area code an essential resource for the region.
Potential for Additional Overlays
If the demand for new numbers continues to rise, it’s possible that additional overlays or even new area codes may be required in the future. This would ensure that the region can accommodate new residents and businesses without disrupting existing numbers.
Technological Advancements
As digital communication technologies evolve, the way we use and perceive area codes may change. Services like Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), messaging apps, and virtual phone numbers are becoming more common, potentially reducing the reliance on traditional area codes. However, for now, area codes remain an important part of the telecommunication system, helping to organize and manage the allocation of phone numbers.
Conclusion
The 659 area code is a welcome addition to Alabama’s telecommunications landscape, ensuring that central and western Alabama have the resources needed to support their growing communities and economies. As the region continues to thrive, the 659 area code will play a crucial role in connecting residents, businesses, and institutions, symbolizing both progress and continuity in the heart of the state. Whether you’re a resident, a business owner, or someone new to the area, understanding the 659 area code and its impact will help you stay connected in this dynamic and evolving region.
