Idaho is outgrowing its 208 area code and will need a second one by mid-2018, so the state Public Utilities Commission is asking Idahoans whether they want to be divided geographically between two area codes or just mix the new code in statewide.  Either option has big downsides, from having to change half the folks' area codes to having to dial 10 digits on every in-state call. And that's not to mention the loss of something Idahoans long have identified with - the state's only area code, which it’s had since 1947, now also denotes a popular Idaho-brewed ale, a line of handmade skis and more.

Idaho’s telecommunications providers already have weighed in – they’re unanimously recommending the geographic overlay, under which all existing numbers would keep their 208 area code, and just new numbers would be assigned the new code. Everyone would have to dial 10-digit numbers for every in-state call, though. “Any change is going to be inconvenient, there’s no question,” said Gene Fadness, spokesman for the Idaho PUC. “What we’re trying to do is pick the least inconvenient way.” You can read my full story here at spokesman.com.