The 309 area code is running out of numbers. Get ready to start dialing this new one
A new area code will be joining the company of the 309 area code in Peoria and across central Illinois.
The Illinois Commerce Commission announced Monday the addition of an 861 code to the area. The new area code will come into play in late 2022 or early 2023 as available numbers with the 309 area code begin to run out, the ICC stated in a news release.
First introduced in 1957, the 309 area code serves a region that includes Peoria, Rock Island, Tazewell, Knox, Fulton, Henry, Woodford and McDonough counties. The new 861 area code will serve as an "overlay," covering the same area.
More dialing changes: Calling from a phone in the 309 area code? You must dial all 10 digits starting in October
Current phone numbers with the 309 area code will continue to exist; only new phone lines will be given the 861 code.
In October, the Federal Communications Commission introduced 10-digit dialing, in which every phone call must include the area code to be dialed within the 309 area, to accommodate dialing a nationwide suicide-prevention and mental health hotline.
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: New area code 861 joining 309 in serving Peoria area
