Springfield – State Senator Deanna Demuzio (D – Carlinville) has been informed by the Illinois Department of Transportation that a series of road projects have been approved for Interstate 72 and US 67 in Morgan County and for Illinois 16 and Illinois 127 in Montgomery County.

Our thoughts and prayers go to all the families who have lost loved ones during the events that happened at the mine in Montcoal, West Virginia. As legislators from districts whose history and way of life have involved coal mining for decades, we are heartbroken to hear of the tragedy.

Like every coal mining region in the United States, our small towns throughout the state contain memorials from the various tragedies that have occurred here in Illinois. Our districts also have memorials dedicated to the fight for mine safety and miners’ rights.

As legislators, we know of the constant work required to keep our mines in Illinois safe and secure for the brave men and women who day after day go into the mine shafts to help bring energy to all the residents of Illinois and the nation. While we must remain vigilant as leaders to protect our workers, now is the time to hope and pray for the families affected by this disaster.