Area Code 346: Houston's Comprehensive Telecommunication Guide

Overview of Area Code 346

Area code 346 is an overlay code implemented to support the growing telecommunication needs of the Houston metropolitan area. Since its introduction on July 1, 2014, it has facilitated efficient number allocation and enhanced connectivity.

Geographic Coverage of Area Code 346

Area code 346 spans the southeastern region of Texas, predominantly serving the bustling Houston metropolitan area. Here are some of the major cities covered:

• Alvin, TX: (29.42385, -95.2441)
• Atascocita, TX: (29.99883, -95.1766)
• Baytown, TX: (29.7355, -94.97743)
• Channelview, TX: (29.77606, -95.11465)
• Cloverleaf, TX: (29.77828, -95.17188)
• Deer Park, TX: (29.70523, -95.12382)
• Friendswood, TX: (29.5294, -95.20104)
• South Houston, TX: (29.66301, -95.23549)
• La Porte, TX: (29.66578, -95.01937)
• League City, TX: (29.50745, -95.09493)
• Mission Bend, TX: (29.69384, -95.66495)
• Missouri City, TX: (29.61857, -95.53772)
• Pasadena, TX: (29.69106, -95.2091)
• Pearland, TX: (29.56357, -95.28605)
• Rosenberg, TX: (29.55718, -95.80856)
• Spring, TX: (30.07994, -95.41716)
• Sugar Land, TX: (29.61968, -95.63495)
• The Woodlands, TX: (30.15799, -95.48938)

Numbering Statistics

• Total Numbers Available: Approximately 7.8 million
• Utilization Rate: 65%
• Exhaust Projection: Late 2025

Telecom Network Infrastructure

Major Carriers

• AT&T: 35%
• Verizon: 30%
• T-Mobile: 25%
• Other: 10%

Services Provided

• Landline
• Wireless
• VoIP

Regulatory Framework

Area code 346 operates under the oversight of the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC). It adheres to the North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) regulations, ensuring compliance with overlay plans and number conservation measures. Ten-digit dialing is mandatory within this area code.

Historical Milestones

• 1947: Area code 713 was established as one of the original Texas area codes.
• 1983: Area code 713 split to create area code 409.
• 1996: Area code 713 split to create area code 281.
• 1999: Overlay of area codes 713 and 281 with area code 832.
• 2014: Introduction of area code 346 as an additional overlay.

Conclusion

Area code 346 is pivotal to the telecommunications framework of Houston, Texas, enabling robust connectivity and supporting the region's growth. It ensures efficient number use and adheres to stringent regulatory standards, making it a cornerstone of Texas's communication infrastructure.

For further details and updates, visit the Public Utility Commission of Texas.