Area code 970 serves a large portion of Colorado, specifically the northern and western regions of the state. Recently, the Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) announced a change for this area, indicating the introduction of a new area code, 748, to overlay the existing 970 region. This change is set to begin in 2026, driven by the increasing demand for new phone numbers in the 970 zone.
The 970 area code is geographically expansive, covering a significant portion of Colorado. It stretches from the eastern plains near Julesburg, all the way westward to the Utah state border. This vast region encompasses a diverse landscape, including the Rocky Mountains and the Western Slope. Major cities and towns within the 970 area code include:
- Fort Collins
- Aspen
- Glenwood Springs
- Grand Junction
- Durango
These locations represent a mix of urban centers, mountain resorts, and rural communities, all currently unified under the 970 area code.
Alt: Map of Colorado highlighting the 970 area code region with major cities like Fort Collins, Aspen, and Grand Junction.
The introduction of the 748 area code does not mean current 970 number holders will need to change their numbers. This overlay is designed to provide new phone numbers for the region without disrupting existing services. Only individuals and businesses requesting new phone lines or services after 2026 in the northern and western Colorado region will be assigned the 748 area code.
This new area code will function identically to the existing 970 code. Essential services such as 911, 211, and 311 will operate without any changes. The PUC is collaborating with telecommunication carriers to ensure a smooth transition for this area code implementation. They have outlined a nine-month preparation period, concluding well in advance of the projected number exhaustion in early 2026. This timeline includes network upgrades and public awareness campaigns to inform consumers about the upcoming change.
Colorado has seen area code expansions before. Notably, the Denver metro area recently introduced the 983 area code in 2022, overlaying the long-standing 303 and 720 area codes. The addition of 748 to the 970 region reflects the continued growth and demand for telecommunication services across Colorado. For residents and businesses in northern and western Colorado, understanding the location of area code 970 and the upcoming 748 overlay is crucial for navigating these telecommunications updates.
