Phone Petition

     This spring it will cost you less to call family and friends around the Treasure Valley.
     Currently, there is a local calling area established that includes Boise, Caldwell, Eagle, Emmett, Idaho City, Kuna, Melba, Meridian, Middleton, Nampa and Star.
     On April 29, that will increase to as far north as Weiser and as far south as Glenns Ferry -- establishing one of the largest local calling areas in the United States, US West Spokesman Mike Reynoldson said.
     The new cities to be included in the local calling area are: Glenns Ferry, Hammett, King Hill, Mountain Home, New Plymouth, Payette and Weiser.
     The expansion of the Treasure Valley Larger Local Calling Area is expected to increase the phone traffic by three times.
     US West is updating electronics and switching equipment so the system recognizes the new local calls and can accommodate the traffic.
     The addition was announced in November by the Public Utilities Commission after requests from customers.