Phone Numbers of State Agencies to Change

Phone Numbers of State Agencies to Change

Fax Machines, Computer Modems and Alarm Systems Must be
Reprogrammed to Recognize New Exchange

January 8, 1998

PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- Telephone numbers for all Rhode Island state
agencies will change this Friday at 5 p.m. The first three digits,
known as the telephone exchange, will now be 222 instead of 277.
Bell Atlantic and the state agencies are urging telephone customers to
reprogram speed dialers, computer software, fax machines, medical and
security alarms, modems and other equipment to dial the new 222
telephone exchange. Callers should also note the change in their
telephone directories.

"We want our customers to be aware of the change so they can make as
smooth a transition as possible," said Donna Cupelo, Bell Atlantic -
Rhode Island president and CEO. "Customers should reprogram their
services and equipment after 5p.m. Friday so they can complete their
calls the next time they dial a state agency."

Customers dialing the 277 exchange after 5 p.m. Friday will hear an
announcement instructing them how to re-dial.

Businesses will need to contact their equipment provider to reprogram
private branch exchanges (PBX's) and other business telephone
equipment to recognize the new 222 exchange. Some ISDN (Integrated
Services Digital Network) users in the new area codes also will need
to reprogram their terminal equipment.

Bell Atlantic is at the forefront of the new communications,
information and entertainment industry. With 40 million telephone
access lines and 5.8 million wireless customers worldwide, Bell
Atlantic companies are premier providers of advanced wireline voice
and data services, market leaders in wireless services and the world's
largest publishers of directory information. Bell Atlantic companies
are also among the world's largest investors in high-growth global
communications markets, with operations and investments in 21
countries.