What is the history behind area code 360?

Area code 360 was introduced on January 15, 1995, as a split from area code 206 to serve the western portion of Washington state. It excludes the Seattle metropolitan area and regions west of the Cascade Mountains.

Which cities are covered by area code 360?

Area code 360 covers key cities such as Bellingham, Bremerton, Lacey, Longview, Marysville, Mount Vernon, Olympia, and Vancouver in Washington state.

When was ten-digit dialing implemented in area code 360?

Ten-digit dialing became mandatory in area code 360 on July 29, 2017, due to the overlay of area code 564.

Who regulates area code 360?

The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission regulates area code 360, ensuring compliance with national standards for area code assignments and overlays.

What is the significance of area code 360 in Washington?

Area code 360 is significant for connecting the diverse communities of western Washington, supporting economic and cultural activities in the region.

What are the technical specifications of area code 360?

Area code 360 is an overlay type, with the NPA code 360, implemented on January 15, 1995, in Washington state.

What major carriers operate in area code 360?

Various carriers, including historical provider US West, offer landline, wireless, and VoIP services in area code 360.

What was the original area code for Washington state?

The original area code for Washington state was 206, assigned in 1947.

How has the area code 360 changed over time?

Area code 360 was created in 1995 from area code 206, and in 2017, area code 564 was overlaid on it to address number exhaustion.

What is the purpose of area code overlays like 564?

Overlays like area code 564 ensure sufficient phone number availability for growing populations and businesses without changing existing numbers.

What are the dialing requirements for area code 360?

Dialing within area code 360 requires ten-digit dialing due to the overlay with area code 564.

What led to the creation of area code 360?

Area code 360 was created to address the growing demand for phone numbers in western Washington, splitting from area code 206.

How does area code 360 contribute to Washington's economy?

Area code 360 serves key cities that are vital economic and cultural hubs in western Washington, supporting various industries and communities.

When was the last prefix for area code 360 assigned?

The final prefix for area code 360 was assigned in 2021.

Why is efficient number management important for area code 360?

Efficient number management is crucial to prevent exhaustion and ensure continued availability of phone numbers for residents and businesses.

What is the coverage area of area code 360?

Area code 360 covers the western portion of Washington state, including the Olympic Peninsula, from the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the Oregon border.

How does area code 360 fit into the North American Numbering Plan?

Area code 360 is part of the North American Numbering Plan, which organizes phone numbers across the continent to ensure efficient communication.

Where can I find more information about area code 360?

For more details, visit the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission's website or the official Wikipedia page on Area Code 360.

Area Code 360: Coverage, Cities, and Key Facts

Area code 360 is a significant part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), primarily serving western Washington state. This guide explores its coverage, major cities, dialing requirements, and regulatory framework.

What Is Area Code 360?

Area code 360 was introduced on January 15, 1995, as part of a split from area code 206. It serves the western portion of Washington state, excluding the Seattle metropolitan area and regions west of the Cascade Mountains. This area includes the Olympic Peninsula and stretches from the Strait of Juan de Fuca to the Oregon border.

Geographic Coverage of Area Code 360

Major Cities in Area Code 360

Area code 360 covers several key cities in Washington, including:

Bellingham
Bremerton
Lacey
Longview
Marysville
Mount Vernon
Olympia
Vancouver

These cities are vital hubs within the state, contributing to the economic and cultural landscape of the region.

Technical and Regulatory Details

Technical Specifications

NPA Code: 360
Type: Overlay
Implementation Date: January 15, 1995
State: Washington

Dialing Requirements

Since July 29, 2017, ten-digit dialing has been mandatory in the region due to the overlay of area code 564. This change ensures sufficient number availability for the growing population and businesses in the area.

Regulatory Framework

The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission oversees the regulation of area code 360. The area code adheres to NANPA regulations, ensuring compliance with national standards for area code assignments and overlays.

Historical Milestones

1947: Area code 206 was assigned to Washington state.
1957: Area code 206 was reduced to western Washington.
1995: Area code 360 was created from area code 206.
2017: Area code 564 overlaid on area code 360.
2021: Final 360 prefix was assigned.

Numbering and Network Infrastructure

Major Carriers and Services

Area code 360 is served by various carriers, providing landline, wireless, and VoIP services. Historically, US West played a significant role in telecommunications within the area.

Numbering Statistics

While specific data on total numbers available and utilization rates are not provided, projections in 2016 anticipated exhaustion by 2018. These statistics underscore the importance of efficient number management and planning.

Conclusion

Area code 360 is essential for connecting the diverse and vibrant communities of western Washington state. With its rich history and ongoing development, it remains a crucial part of the region's telecommunication infrastructure.

For more detailed insights, visit the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission or the official Wikipedia page on Area Code 360.

If you're interested in learning more about other area codes or telecommunication regulations, check out our related articles or contact local authorities for the most current information.

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