I just had this news item passed on to me from someone who works at at&t. He said he was told to notify friends and family members so I'm just goint spread it to the world.

For those who do not live in Connecticut, 811 has been the number you dial for customer service. It's been nice and simple, very easy to use and remember. Well, it must have been too easy to use because now customers of at&t will have to call the longer 1-800-ATT-2020!

In the wake of a recent FCC ruling, AT&T Connecticut's well-known 811 customer service number will transition to 1-800-ATT-2020 over the coming months. The change is a result of a new initiative by the FCC to standardize the number used to reach "dig safe" programs in all 50 states.
Connecticut is thought to be the only state in the country where there is currently an existing use for 811. AT&T has worked closely with Call Before You Dig, Inc. to roll out a public information campaign including print advertisements, messages in customer bills, phone directory changes and direct mail.

In addition, the two organizations have together developed a gradual transition process for customers dialing 811:

Effective immediately, those calling 811 will hear a brief message about the pending change and including the new AT&T number before being directly connected to the company's customer service center.

Beginning in early 2007 and continuing through April of that year, 811 callers will hear a brief informational message and have the option to be directly connected to either AT&T or Call Before You Dig.

The final switchover of 811 to Call Before You Dig is expected to be completed by April of 2007.
While the FCC's order will bring a significant change to this state, AT&T agrees with the commission that the public safety benefits of a consistent, national number for people to call before they start a construction project could be significant.