ALBERS, IL – State Representative Charlie Meier (R-Okawville) has announced that Route 161 between Albers and New Baden is open after more than two years of roadwork. The roadwork began in 2022, following significant damage to the road due to mine subsidence from Monterey Mine #2.
After significant buckling, Meier worked with the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Village of Albers, and mine owner ExxonMobil to come up with solutions. The solutions included a multi-year project to smooth the road and improve drainage.
“I’ve been hearing for years from constituents that this stretch of road needed fixed,” said Meier. “It’s been a long process, but I am happy to report that the road is smooth, safe, and open.”
Meier has been involved in negotiations between the Village of Albers, IDOT, and ExxonMobil throughout the project.
“This was a group effort, and I want to thank Albers Mayor Steve Schomaker and IDOT Operations Engineer Joe Monroe for their hard work and working to ensure that this road was fixed,” Meier noted.