The U.S. Postal Service tells NewsWest 9 there is a technical issue with the operation of the console switch. It is currently being troubleshooted by an external vendor.
BIG SPRING, Texas — Since February 18, Big Spring Post Office customers have been unable to mail packages (unless prepaid) and complete passport applications at the facility.
According to the U.S. Postal Service, an outside vendor observed an internet outage due to a technical issue with the console switch.
As of February 27, USPS was unable to provide an estimated time for resolution of the issue.
“Postal customers can drop off prepaid packages and purchase stamps when paying cash,” the Postal Service said. “Delivery services are not affected by this outage and customers can still collect unannounced parcels.”
A sign posted at the entrance to the Big Spring Post Office reads, “Sorry for the inconvenience. We are only able to pick up items until further notice.”
Don White, a longtime Big Spring resident, has been struggling to send packages since the power went out.
“I’m not trying to destroy the post office, but what they’re going through seems unusual,” White said. “But for the post office itself, I would say I would call their IT people and have them come in and fix the problem. I mean, if I can do that, why can’t a government office? Especially one as important as the post office institution. ”
One elected official in the city said the inconvenience caused them to drive all the way to the Odessa post office. The power outage hampered their passport appointments.
Jayne Calhoun has relied on the Big Spring Post Office for more than 45 years. The Big Spring Post Office is the only facility currently handling the internet outage, according to the U.S. Postal Service.
“Everyone has internet problems, so I think we should understand when the internet goes down,” Calhoun said.
The Postal Service uses third-party vendors to provide Internet services.
Retail services are available at the Stanton Post Office, 101 N. St. Mary’s, Stanton, TX. 79782.
Passport appointments must be scheduled online at www.usps.com. The nearest available facility is the Midland Post Office, 10000 Loop 40, Midland, TX. 79711.