New 346 area code planned for Houston area

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Get ready to learn more numbers - the greater Houston area will be getting a new area code.

The Public Utility Commission (PUC) on Thursday announced the addition of area code 346 to accommodate continued growth in and around Houston. The 346 area code will overlay existing area codes 713, 281 and 832 in Harris, Fort Bend, Waller, Austin, Montgomery, San Jacinto, Liberty, Chambers, Galveston and Brazoria counties.

The North American Number Planning Administrator (NANPA) assigned the 346 area code after projecting that the three existing area codes will run out of numbers by September 30, 2014. Officials say the new area code will not require any reprogramming changes to existing equipment because an area code overlay requiring 10-digit dialing for local calls already exists in the region.

Beginning in August, preparations will be made, and efforts will be made to educate the public about the upcoming change. Beginning July 1, 2014, new phone numbers can be assigned with a 346 area code.
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