By Stephanie Milbergs
Cavalier Daily Staff Writer
For as long as you can remember, the area code in Charlottesville has been the same as in Richmond - 804.
But when you try to dial it, an annoying, pre-recorded voice comes on the phone saying you dialed an invalid number. You are thoroughly confused until you remember that Charlottesville switched its area code. It's now 434.
Callers to the Charlottesville area can now use either 804 or 434, but by January 2002, only 434 will work.
To orient new students with the new area code, the University issued on-Grounds numbers with a 434 prefix. However, for students that have been attending the University for a year or more, this might take some adjustment.
But fourth-year College student David Tyndall, an information desk clerk at Newcomb Hall, which provides student phone numbers to callers, said there has not been a problem yet and that he does not anticipate one in the future regarding the area code switch.
But not everyone is as confident about such a seamless transition.
"I think it will be a little problem at first," second-year College student Lauren Richards said. "I told my friends my area code is 804, but I think after a month or so it will be okay."
According to Peggy Kofahl, an administrative and programming specialist for Information Technology and Communication, the area code change is necessary because of the proliferation of small companies and the amount of new cell phone numbers in the area.
The new 434 area code will ensure that Charlottesville will gain needed new numbers. And the city will now have one more way in which to identify itself - its own area code.
Read More
How study abroad taught me to stop studying
By Grace Scott | 3 days agoTurns out, it took attending one of the most prestigious universities in the world for me to realize there's more to life than studying.
Collyn Clark reflects on Space Workforce 2030, building an inclusive space industry
By Carly Stender | 5 days agoClark said programs such as the SWF 2030 internship can serve as launch pads for a career in the aerospace industry.
The White Spot: an iconic diner etched in student nightlife
By Alexa Graham | 6 days agoThe White Spot is a timeless diner for Charlottesville residents and students looking for a greasy spoon infused with University spirit.
