HAMPTON ROADS, Va. (WAVY) – The “757” will soon include the “948”, at least when it comes to the area code.
The State Corporation Commission (SCC) announced Wednesday that it has approved the new 948 area code for the Hampton Roads region once there are no more phone numbers available with the 757 area code. That’s expected to happen late next year.
The 757 area code was created in 1996, when the 804 area code was nearing exhaustion.
The new 948 area code will only impact new numbers; existing 757 phone numbers will not change.
The SCC agreed with the findings released last year, following a series of public hearings in the Hampton Roads region. The Commission determined the overlay option would be the least disruptive for customers in the region.
The change is bringing about mixed opinions. Some people tell 10 On Your Side the number is part of their identity.
“I think it’s crazy it wont be the ‘757’ anymore. I don’t like it,” said Virginia Beach resident Dana Askew. “I’m so used to the ‘757.’ It’ll be weird seeing a 948 or anything other than 757 for this area.”
Others said it’s just a number.
“As long as somebody’s got my number, I got work,” said Barry Turner, a Norfolk resident. “People know how to get in touch with you.”
This past December, the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce announced a new ‘757’ rebranding campaign for the region. The report stated “we are not concerned about an additional area code to 757 that will start to show up in the region for new phone numbers issued in 2022 and beyond.” The Chamber’s research found that 757 is the way many people emotionally connect with the entire region.
