Metro News Release

For immediate release: July 18, 2012

Metro resolves computer glitch

Work continues to make computer system more reliable

Metro has fixed the computer glitch that impacted weekend rail service, the agency announced today.

The cause was determined to be a failed module in an information management network device. Once the computer module – about the size of a pizza box – was replaced in the early morning hours before the start of train service, the errors that had occurred in the system stopped.

“While we have confidence that the immediate issue has been resolved, our work must and will continue to make this system more robust and to improve its reliability for our customers,” said David Kubicek, Metro Deputy General Manager for Operations.

The computer problem on Saturday afternoon and early Sunday morning affected an information management system that allows controllers in Metro's Rail Operations Control Center to see where trains are on a dynamic map and to remotely control switches. All safety systems that keep trains properly spaced remained fully operational during both occurrences.

Metro rail service operated normally this morning.  However, Metro is again advising customers that the extreme heat predicted for later today could trigger speed restrictions that would slow trains during the afternoon and evening hours. Also, for the safety of its customers and employees, Metro will continue to allow water to be consumed aboard trains and buses today. For up-to-the minute news and information about Metro service, subscribe to MetroAlerts at wmata.com/metroalerts.

News release issued at 10:41 am, July 18, 2012.