Nebraskans in the 402 area code will have to use 10 digits for local calls even before the new 531 area code numbers are assigned.
The state Public Service Commission said in a news release Thursday that the 10-digit dialing will be available on June 26 so people can use either the seven-digit local number or add the 402 in front.
But the PSC says 10-digit dialing will be mandatory on Feb. 26 next year.
PSC telecommunications analyst Don Gray said Thursday that the PSC isn't sure when 402 numbers will run out, but that's projected to occur sometime in the third quarter of next year.
Gray says the 10-digit dialing is starting early so service providers can be certain their equipment has been correctly reconfigured.
