Beginning this Sunday, AT&T will start turning off traditional copper landline telephone service in dozens of wire centers throughout Middle Tennessee. The company received approval from the Federal Communications Commission to begin the phase‑out, with a deadline to complete the transition by 2029.
Why the shutdown matters for homeowners and businesses
Many households and commercial properties still rely on landlines for fax machines, security systems, fire alarms, elevator communications, and other critical functions. “You’re talking about fax lines, security lines, elevator lines especially when it comes to condos, townhomes, business centers, medical plazas. That’s where you’re going to see the vast majority of them,” said Stephen Burton of One Call Technology, a Franklin‑based firm that assists customers with the transition.
Burton warned that without a landline, safety systems that depend on copper wiring could stop working. He urged anyone with fire alarms, emergency phones, or other safety equipment to act now and arrange backup solutions.
What consumers can expect
AT&T’s filing indicates the company will begin discontinuing service this weekend, with different carriers shutting off service at varying times. While the change may not affect every customer immediately, the loss of copper service can have broader implications:
- Potential cost increases: With pricing regulations for copper service removed, some customers have already seen their bills rise sharply.
- Notice requirements: Providers must give at least 180 days’ notice to business customers and 90 days to residential customers before terminating service.
- Neutral information: Providers must explain alternative options without pressuring customers to upgrade.
- Power‑outage resilience: Traditional copper lines often continue to work during outages, unlike many newer VoIP services that require electricity.
How to prepare
Burton recommends reaching out to local specialists who understand the regional landscape. “There are a lot in the Middle Tennessee area that you can talk with who are well aware of what’s going on and can hold your hand and walk you through it,” he said.
Customers should consider the following steps:
- Identify any equipment that currently uses a landline connection.
- Contact AT&T or a qualified service provider to discuss replacement options, such as cellular‑based systems, VoIP with battery backup, or dedicated emergency lines.
- Review contracts and pricing to avoid unexpected cost spikes.
- Ensure any new solution complies with local building codes and safety regulations.
Local impact and next steps
The shutdown will affect a broad swath of Middle Tennessee, including communities around Franklin, Murfreesboro, and surrounding towns. While the federal approval clears the way for AT&T, local businesses and residents will need to coordinate with service providers to maintain continuity of essential communications.
One Call Technology and other regional firms are already fielding calls and offering assistance. As the transition proceeds, consumers are encouraged to stay informed, act promptly, and seek professional guidance to avoid service interruptions that could affect safety and daily operations.
Original reporting: NewsChannel 5 WTVF (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
