Due to network errors, TriMet not inspecting fares

At 5:15 a.m., TriMet said while "MAX, bus and WES are providing regular service this morning, LIFT para-transit service is only able to provide life-sustaining trips at this time. Our phones, including our Rider Support call center at 503-238-RIDE, are down."

TriMet also said its ticket machines weren't able to process payment card transactions and customers couldn't load money onto Hop cards.

"We sincerely regret the impact this network issue is having on our riders. Crews are working around the clock to try to resolve the issue," TriMet apologized.

Two hours after TriMet issued a notice about Wednesday's computer network problems, it said it wouldn't be inspecting fares until functionality was back to normal.

So, riders will be able to take TriMet for free Wednesday as TriMet is not expecting payment.

The issues came a just hours after what TriMet called a "extremely challenging day," when various issues and delays persisted throughout Tuesday.

With the Portland heat wave underway, TriMet has told riders to be prepared for MAX delays and to keep hydrated at stops while waiting.

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