AT&T customer service made false promises to get me to sign up for services

I called AT&T to transfer my uverse service as I moved to a new address. It was very important to me to keep my phone number (reason I don't need to go into here). On my initial request, I was told that this would not be possible because my new location was under a different area code. I told the rep not to do anything further until we come up with a solution because it is "very important" that I keep my current phone number.

Couple of days later I called to see what other option I may have, but I was told the same. Therefore, I decided to just move my internet service. The rep was very helpful, well at least that’s what I thought; when he suggested that I can move my internet while I can disconnect my telephone number in order to “port” it later with a different carrier. I double, triple checked with him if that will be possible after the disconnection, and he assured me that it will. He was so helpful, that I even signed up for Uverse TV.

Well, I found another carrier that will be able to “port” my old number to my new address, but am not able to because the number is not active (or released by AT&T). I called, requesting to have the number activated in order for the new carrier to port the number, and come to find out that it is not possible. I got transferred to 5 different departments, from 2 customer service departments, to 2 different technical support units, to a wireless department, with no solution.

What are my options here? I want to keep my number that disconnected 6 days ago, but I’m not able to activate it in order for the carrier to “port.” Any help will be appreciated as I’m left with no options and with zero help from AT&T.