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Area Code 254: Location, Cities, and Key Information
Area code 254 serves central Texas, including Waco (31.54933, -97.14667), Killeen, & Temple. Discover its single NPA type, implemented May 25, 1997, split from 817. Explore mandatory 10-digit dialing changes since 10/24/2021 due to the 988 lifeline, plus NANPA regulatory details.
Area Code 254: Location, Cities, and Key Information
Area code 254 is a critical part of the telecommunications landscape in central Texas. Serving major cities like Waco, Temple, and Killeen, it has been in operation since May 25, 1997, following its split from area code 817. This guide provides detailed insights into area code 254, including its geographic reach, regulatory changes, and network infrastructure.
Where is Area Code 254 Located?
Area code 254 is located in central Texas, covering a diverse region that includes the following cities:
- Waco, Texas
- Coordinates: 31.54933, -97.14667
- Killeen, Texas
- Coordinates: 31.11712, -97.7278
- Temple, Texas
- Coordinates: 31.09823, -97.34278
- Copperas Cove, Texas
- Coordinates: 31.12406, -97.90308
- Fort Hood, Texas
- Coordinates: 31.13489, -97.77561
These cities are central to the economic and cultural activities in the region, making area code 254 vital for communication within central Texas.
Technical Specifications of Area Code 254
- NPA Code: 254
- Type: Single
- Implementation Date: May 25, 1997
- State: Texas
Area code 254 is a single area code serving central Texas, implemented to accommodate the growing telecommunications needs of the region.
Dialing and Regulatory Changes
Regulatory Framework
- Regulatory Body: North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA)
- Dialing Requirements: Ten-digit dialing is mandatory for all local calls within area code 254.
- Recent Changes: The transition to ten-digit dialing was necessitated by the introduction of 988 as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number on October 24, 2021.
These changes ensure compliance with national regulations and enhance the efficiency of the telecommunications network.
Network Infrastructure and Major Carriers
Area code 254 supports a variety of services, including landline, wireless, and VoIP. Major carriers operating in this area provide extensive coverage and service options to meet the diverse needs of residents and businesses.
Services Offered
- Landline Services
- Wireless Services
- VoIP Services
These services ensure seamless communication across central Texas, supporting both personal and business communications.
Historical Milestones
- May 25, 1997: Area code 254 was introduced to meet the growing demand for telephone numbers, split from area code 817.
- October 24, 2021: Transitioned to ten-digit dialing to accommodate the 988 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
These milestones highlight the adaptability and growth of the telecommunications infrastructure in the region.
Conclusion
Area code 254 is an essential component of central Texas's communication network, supporting a wide range of services and adapting to regulatory changes to better serve its population. For more detailed information, visit the North American Numbering Plan Administrator.
For further insights and updates on area code 254, consider exploring related topics or contacting local service providers for specific service offerings and coverage details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What area code is Waco Texas?
Waco, Texas is located in area code 254.
When did area code 254 become active?
Area code 254 was activated on May 25, 1997.
Why was area code 254 created?
Area code 254 was created due to the growing demand for phone numbers in central Texas. It was split from area code 817.
What is the area code for Killeen and Temple Texas?
Killeen and Temple, Texas share the same area code, which is 254.
What area code is Fort Hood located in?
Fort Hood is located within area code 254 in central Texas.
Is 10-digit dialing required for calls within area code 254?
Yes, 10-digit dialing (including the area code) is required for all local calls within area code 254.
When did 10-digit dialing become mandatory for area code 254?
10-digit dialing became mandatory in area code 254 on October 24, 2021.
Why was 10-digit dialing implemented in area code 254?
The implementation of 10-digit dialing in area code 254 was necessary to accommodate the introduction of 988 as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
What types of phone services are available in area code 254?
Area code 254 supports landline, wireless, and VoIP phone services.
Which organization oversees area code 254?
Area code 254, like other area codes in North America, falls under the regulation of the North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA).
What was the previous area code for the region covered by 254?
Before the introduction of area code 254, this region of central Texas was covered by area code 817.
What are the coordinates for cities within area code 254?
Waco: 31.54933, -97.14667; Killeen: 31.11712, -97.7278; Temple: 31.09823, -97.34278; Copperas Cove: 31.12406, -97.90308; Fort Hood: 31.13489, -97.77561.
What cities are in area code 254?
Area code 254 serves several central Texas cities, including Waco, Killeen, Temple, Copperas Cove, and Fort Hood. These cities are key to the region's economic and cultural activities, making 254 a vital communication hub.
When did area code 254 come into service?
Area code 254 was activated on May 25, 1997. It was split from the existing 817 area code to handle the growing demand for phone numbers in central Texas.
Why is 10-digit dialing required for area code 254?
Ten-digit dialing became mandatory in area code 254 on October 24, 2021. This change was implemented to accommodate the creation of the 988 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
How to dial a number in area code 254?
All calls within area code 254, even local ones, require 10-digit dialing. This means dialing both the area code and the seven-digit phone number for every call, ensuring proper routing.
What is the area code for Waco, Texas?
Waco, Texas is located within area code 254. This area code serves a significant portion of central Texas, covering cities like Killeen and Temple as well.
What area code is Killeen Texas?
Killeen, Texas, is located within area code 254, alongside other central Texas cities like Waco, Temple, and Copperas Cove. This area code serves a vital role in the region's communication infrastructure.
Where is the 254 area code located geographically?
The 254 area code is located in central Texas. It covers a region encompassing major cities like Waco, Killeen, and Temple, playing a crucial role in the area's communication network.
What types of phone services are available in 254?
Area code 254 supports various communication services, including landline, wireless, and VoIP. This range of options allows residents and businesses to choose the services best suited for their needs.
When did 254 area code switch to 10-digit dialing?
The 254 area code transitioned to mandatory 10-digit dialing on October 24, 2021. This change coincided with the introduction of 988 as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline number.
What is the NPA code for area code 254?
The NPA, or Numbering Plan Area, code for this region is 254. This code, established in 1997, is essential for routing calls within the central Texas region.