SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - A broken elevator at the Riverview public housing complex in Springfield became a problem this week for elderly and disabled tenants.

Twice this week, the elevator at 122 Clyde Street broke down, causing issues for elderly and disabled tenants living near the top of the eight-story building.

"I had to get food this weekend and my daughter had to come from Boston to help me on Friday because I couldn't because the elevator is broken," Yolanda Arias told 22News.

22News found out the repair company's contract with the Housing Authority requires them to get the elevator working within two hours of a reported break down. The Springfield Housing Authority's deputy director said the lengthy repair delay this week is not acceptable.

"We've been on the phone all morning, with KONE, reported they have manpower issues," Nicole Contois said. "So it's holding their feet to the fire and getting the elevator fixed so our residents won't have to be without it."

KONE spokesman Patrick O’Connell sent 22News this statement:

KONE sincerely apologizes for any elevator service interruption, and we understand the inconvenience this causes residents. Unfortunately, this building has only one elevator, making any service interruption particularly challenging. The elevator at this property was also manufactured and upgraded decades ago, which causes challenges in locating and sourcing parts for repairs. It is always our intention to quickly perform repairs. KONE service teams have been responsive to this particular elevator, and it is currently operational as of this afternoon.

The elevator is now working again, but it took days and not hours before the service was eventually restored.