BART recovering after computer failure

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. - BART on Thursday reported a major delay system-wide because of a computer failure, causing major delays for about an hour along with residual holdups throughout the system. 

The breakdown was first reported about 5 a.m. and BART strongly suggested that commuters take an alternative form of transportation.  

That was an unusual statement from BART, as most often the agency says delays will last about 20 minutes or so. 

But just before 6 a.m., BART was able to fix the problem and commuters were able to ride buy tickets and ride the trains.

However, some early morning commuting damage was already done. For instance, traffic heading to the Bay Bridge was heavy at that time. 

Danielle Biondi said she looked at the BART app before she headed out in the predawn hours and was able to get to where she needed to go via scooter.

Still, she added, it was "a bit of an escapade to get here this morning."

Spokesman Jim Allison said the computer issue occurred with the dispatching system at the operation control center.