Ben Nuckols

Associated Press

Dc Metro Shutdown 56ec106d98757

With Lack of Maintenance, DC Subway System Loses its Luster

The closure of the subways in the nation's capital in the middle of the workweek to inspect and repair power cables that could otherwise burst into flames was just the latest symptom of a lengthy decline for the Metro system, once a source of pride.

The Metrorail system that serves the nation's capital and its Virginia and Maryland suburbs shut down for a full-day for an emergency safety inspection of its third-rail power cables. Making for unusual commute, as the lack of service is forcing some people on the roads, while others are staying home or teleworking.

Systemic Problems Remain in Subway

Inspections revealed 26 areas of concern, including three that were called 'show-stoppers.'

Metro general manager Paul Wiedefeld listens to a question during a news conference to announce that the DC Metrorail service will be shut down for a full day at the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority headquarters, on Tuesday, March 15, 2016, in Washington. Wiedefeld said the system would be shut down for an emergency inspection of the system’s third rail power cables.

Entire Subway System Shut Down

A fire on the tracks led to major delays throughout the system on Monday. The fire was caused by the same ...