The 717 area code is an essential part of the telecommunications landscape in south-central Pennsylvania. It covers a diverse range of cities, towns, and counties, connecting residents and businesses alike. With the region’s steady growth and technological advancements in communication, the 717 area code faces several changes that could impact its future. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the 717 area code, from its history and current use to the upcoming area code overlay and how it will affect businesses and individuals.
Historical Overview of the 717 Area Code
The 717 area code has served central Pennsylvania since 1947. Initially, it covered a much larger portion of the state, but as the region grew in population and economic activity, the demand for phone numbers surged. To meet this demand, the area code was split in 1998, creating the 570 area code. Despite the split, the 717 area code remains a key identifier for several counties and major cities such as Harrisburg, Lancaster, and York.
As the population continues to expand, the 717 area code faces the challenge of exhausting its supply of available phone numbers. This led to the introduction of the 223 area code, which will overlay the 717 area code, ensuring continued availability of phone numbers for the region.
This overlay process is not new. Similar overlays have been used across the U.S. to address the growing demand for telephone numbers. For example, in the New York metropolitan area, the 718 area code was introduced to complement the original 212 area code.
Understanding the 717 Area Code Overlay
In recent years, it became clear that the 717 area code was running out of available phone numbers. The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) approved a relief plan to address this issue by adding a new area code, 223, which will overlay the existing 717 area code. This means that the same geographic region will now be served by two area codes.
What Does This Mean for You?
Under the overlay plan, residents and businesses in the 717 area code will keep their current phone numbers. Once the supply of 717 numbers is exhausted, the 223 area code will be used for new customers. Importantly, the area code overlay will not require existing customers to change their phone numbers. However, the overlay does bring a change in dialing requirements. Starting in 2017, all calls within the 717 area code (whether to another 717 number or a 223 number) will require 10-digit dialing. This means dialing the area code, followed by the 7-digit number.
This change can be confusing for those not prepared, which is why businesses and residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new dialing format.
Impact on Businesses in the 717 Area Code
For businesses in the 717 area code, having a local number is essential for establishing credibility and building trust with customers. A 717 area code number signals to potential clients that the business is embedded in the local community, which can improve customer loyalty and engagement.
Why Is a Local Number Important for Your Business?
- Local Credibility: Customers are more likely to trust a business with a local area code because it signals that the company is part of their community.
- Enhanced Customer Experience: Local numbers make it easier for customers to reach your business without the perception of “long-distance” costs.
- SEO Benefits: Having a local number in the 717 area code can improve your local search engine optimization (SEO), helping your business show up in searches related to the region.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Local calls often come at a lower cost compared to long-distance calls, making local numbers more affordable for businesses and their customers.
With the introduction of the 223 area code, businesses in the 717 area code will not have to change their phone numbers, but it’s essential to update marketing materials, websites, and directories to reflect the new dialing requirements.
How Area Code Changes Affect Local Marketing
Local businesses benefit significantly from having a 717 area code because it boosts their marketing efforts. Here’s why:
- Targeted Marketing: A 717 area code phone number helps businesses reach local customers more effectively by creating a sense of connection and relevance.
- Local SEO Advantage: Having a local number improves your chances of ranking in local search results, which can lead to more visibility and customers.
- Customer Trust: Local businesses with a 717 area code number can build stronger relationships with customers, as it shows a commitment to the region.
Businesses should keep in mind that while their 717 area code number may not change, it’s important to update contact details to reflect the new 10-digit dialing requirement.
Phone Number Portability in the 717 Area Code
Another significant benefit of the 717 area code is phone number portability. This allows businesses and residents to retain their 717 area code number when switching service providers. By keeping the same phone number, businesses can maintain continuity, reducing the chances of losing touch with customers.
How Does Phone Number Portability Work?
- Eligibility Check: Contact your current provider to verify that your phone number is eligible for portability.
- Choose a New Provider: Select a new service provider and initiate the porting process.
- Provide Documentation: You may need to provide your account details and identification to confirm the porting request.
- Porting Process: The transfer usually takes between 1-7 business days. During this period, there might be a brief service interruption.
For businesses, retaining the same number is critical for maintaining brand identity and customer loyalty.
The Transition to 10-Digit Dialing in the 717 Area Code
One of the most significant changes with the introduction of the 223 area code is the transition to 10-digit dialing. As of 2017, all calls within the 717 area code will require 10-digit dialing, even for local calls. This means dialing the area code, followed by the 7-digit number, regardless of whether you are calling someone within the same area code or to a new 223 area code number.
This change affects everyone, including businesses, as customers will now need to dial 10 digits for all calls. To prepare, businesses should:
- Update contact information on marketing materials to include the area code.
- Ensure phone systems are set up to accommodate 10-digit dialing.
- Inform customers of the change through their communications.
Benefits for Businesses with a 717 Area Code Phone Number
Having a 717 area code number offers several advantages for businesses. Aside from the obvious local recognition, it can also contribute to the overall success and marketing effectiveness of a business.
Why Businesses Should Keep Their 717 Area Code Number:
- Local Presence: A local area code helps build trust and credibility with potential customers, signaling that the business is rooted in the region.
- Improved Customer Service: Having a recognizable local number makes it easier for customers to reach your business for inquiries or support.
- Cost Savings: Local numbers are generally more affordable than toll-free or long-distance numbers.
Businesses should take advantage of the 717 area code for its strong local presence, credibility, and marketing benefits.
Protecting Yourself from Scams in the 717 Area Code
The 717 area code, like many others, is not immune to scams. Common phone scams in the region include phishing calls, robocalls, and spoofing. Scammers often use local area codes to make fraudulent calls appear legitimate.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Verify Caller ID: Be cautious of unfamiliar numbers, especially those that appear to be from the local area.
- Don’t Answer Suspicious Calls: If you don’t recognize the number, let it go to voicemail.
- Register with the National Do Not Call Registry: This can help reduce unsolicited telemarketing calls.
It’s essential to stay vigilant and informed about potential scams that may target residents in the 717 area code.
The Future of the 717 Area Code
As technology continues to evolve and demand for phone numbers grows, the 717 area code will likely undergo further changes. Here’s what businesses and residents should watch out for in the future:
- New Area Codes: As the demand for numbers continues to grow, there may be additional area codes introduced in the region.
- Technological Advances: VoIP, 5G, and other communication technologies may change how phone systems in the 717 area code operate.
- Economic Growth: As the region continues to expand, the 717 area code may play a vital role in driving local economic development.
To stay ahead of these changes, businesses should keep an eye on updates from local regulatory bodies and adjust their communication systems as needed.
Conclusion
The 717 area code has been an integral part of south-central Pennsylvania for many years, and while changes are coming, businesses and residents alike can rest easy knowing that they will not have to sacrifice their current phone numbers. The introduction of the 223 area code and the shift to 10-digit dialing are important steps to ensure the region’s continued growth and communication needs are met.
By staying informed and preparing for these changes, businesses can maintain local credibility, while residents can continue to enjoy seamless communication in the 717 area code for many years to come.
