Why Metro's Escalators Break Down

(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)

“Metro’s escalators keep breaking down because they were built for indoor use only, not outdoor exposure,” says ATU 689 President Jackie Jeter on the union’s website. “And years of spotty upkeep have taken a toll. It’s only been within the last few months that Metro brought the repair work back in house.  Our members are devoted to doing their part to care for the escalators.  WMATA needs to back Local 689’s commitment with the necessary capital resources.” Jeter was responding to Metro rider frustrations that she said unfairly lay the blame on transit workers and their unions. - photo courtesy The Washington Post