Metro: Computer Problem Costs $14 Million To Fix

ROCKVILLE, Md. (WUSA) -- A computer distributing power to Metro went down causing a laundry list of problems.

The e-alerts went down, the website went down, the customer call center went down, the NextBus system went down," said Lisa Farbstein with Metro.

She also says Metro couldn't communicate with bus drivers, their call centers were out of service, and on top of that, the PA systems failed.

Some people got a free ride because the machines that distribute farecards wouldn't accept Debit Cards. And because some MetroBus fareboxes also failed.

According to Metro, a power unit that runs a computer system in charge of these services is 27-years old. It failed.

Before this happened, Metro realized it needed to be replaced. Now, it's top priority but it will cost $14 million and six months to fix.

LIST OF WEDNESDAY'S METRO PROBLEMS:
(source: Metro)

Metrobus:
- Some Metrobus fareboxes are not functioning and if that is the case, customers are being allowed to ride without paying a fare.
 The NextBus system is not functioning;
- The Bus Operations Control Center is having difficulty communicating with buses on the street.

MetroAccess:
- The MetroAccess online reservation system is not functioning;
- The MetroAccess call center is not able to make or receive calls;
- The MetroAccess Operations Control Center is having difficulty communicating with vehicles on the street.

Metrorail:
- Customers are not able to purchase fare with their debit cards.
- Customers are limited to charge up to $20 only using a credit card at fare machines.
- The e-alert system is not functioning.
- The public address system is not functioning.