Metro's massive communications meltdown this week has revealed that two critical but aging power units need to be replaced at a cost of $14 million.

One of the power units failed Wednesday, shutting down the public address system, two-way radio links with bus drivers and some bus fare boxes, among other things. Officials say Metro has no backup for the failed unit. The second unit powers computers that operate the rail system.

The agency is already struggling with a $22 million budget shortfall and now must find money to replace the 27-year-old power units. Deputy General Manager Gerald Francis calls this one of Metro's most urgent needs.

Spokeswoman Lisa Farbstein says a temporary fix is in place, but they have no other options.

This story continues below
Advertisement

---

Information from: The Washington Post, http://www.washingtonpost.com