WASHINGTON — In addition to 27 more serious issues, Metro acknowledged Thursday that it found 338 other issues during the emergency shutdown last week that needed less urgent repairs.
General Manager Paul Wiedefeld says the 338 issues are generally things that should have been taken care of during regular maintenance, but had not been.
Metro says 12 inspectors are now getting special training to keep an eye on the troubled cables, and the six teams of two will begin work April 1.
The power cables have been linked to the deadly smoke incident near L’Enfant Plaza last year, several other smoke incidents, and the massive fire near McPherson Square two days before the entire rail system shut down for emergency repairs.
The Federal Transit Administration said this week that is just part of the issue with Metro’s tracks.
Outside railroad electrical engineer consultants have also been hired to recommend ways for Metro to overhaul its power inspection and maintenance programs.
That report is due by mid-April.
