Metro Statement Regarding WMATA-OIG Review of 2016 Rhode Island Avenue Incident

Metro’s Office of Inspector General today released a report reviewing a 2016 incident in which a metal bracket became dislodged at Rhode Island Avenue Station. Metro closed the station for emergency repairs at the time, with permanent repairs scheduled for this summer—as we announced in February. More than a year ago, Metro’s internal quality assurance group (QICO) implemented new processes to ensure that structural inspections are conducted thoroughly, properly, and in accordance with written policies and procedures. Since then, we have re-inspected all structures using the new controls, and are confident in the inspection process. To be clear, the OIG review did not conclude that inspections were not conducted as required, nor reach any conclusions regarding falsification of records. As in the past, if the OIG had reached any conclusions in that regard, we would take immediate action. Finally, the scope of the review involved three (3) inspection reports – one for each of three years – and not dozens as some have misconstrued from the report.