Long distance shortens for surrounding towns. (City Beat).

Businesses and residents living on, the outskirts of Houston won't have to pay as much to phone clients and friends in the Bayou City.

Once considered long-distance, calls placed from those communities will now be charged based on local rates.

Residents of League City, Kemah and Seabrook will now be able to call Houston without racking up long-distance fees - a factor that local economic development sources say will help attract business to the area.

"This is going to effect every business' bottom line in terms of monthly regular cost and it helps our ability to attract and keep businesses in the area, something that's very important to the business …