TRENTON, N.J. — Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill announced Wednesday that Kris Kolluri will continue as president and chief executive officer of NJ Transit while also being nominated to serve as executive director of the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, placing him in charge of day-to-day operations at both agencies.
Sherrill said the dual role is intended to unify transportation strategy across the state and improve coordination among New Jersey’s transit systems. Kolluri will take a $1 salary from the Turnpike Authority, according to the announcement.
“We need a collaborative and creative approach when it comes to addressing challenges and opportunities affecting our state, which is especially true as we update New Jersey’s approach to transit,” Sherrill said. “That’s why I am excited to announce that Kris Kolluri will not only be continuing in his role as President and CEO of NJ TRANSIT but will also be nominated to be the Executive Director of the New Jersey Turnpike Authority. He brings decades of experience with every major transit agency in the region, and his leadership will be key as we rethink the future of transportation in New Jersey to improve commutes, improve coordination, and make sure New Jerseyans spend more time with family and friends, and less time stuck on a train or on the turnpike.”
Sherrill also cited preparations for major international events, including the FIFA World Cup, which will bring tens of thousands of visitors to the state.
“Additionally, as we prepare to welcome tens of thousands of people when we host the FIFA World Cup, Kris will ensure safety and efficiency as we move people on our buses, trains, and highways,” she said.
Kolluri said overseeing both agencies would allow for closer coordination and improved service.
“I am excited to lead both NJ TRANSIT and the New Jersey Turnpike Authority alongside Governor-elect Sherrill, who shares a desire to innovate and improve New Jersey’s transit systems,” Kolluri said. “New Jersey’s success relies on the Turnpike and NJ TRANSIT working together and by overseeing both agencies, particularly for a major security event like the World Cup, I’ll be able to ensure that we eliminate silos and are working in lockstep to provide better service to the people of New Jersey and those visiting our state.”
Fran O’Connor, New Jersey’s transportation commissioner, praised the appointment and thanked outgoing Turnpike Authority Executive Director Jim Carone for his service.
“Gov.-elect Sherrill has made exactly the right choice in appointing Kris Kolluri to do just that,” O’Connor said. “Kris brings decades of experience and will be able to continue to prepare our state for the World Cup but make real-time decisions to ensure our transit systems are working efficiently while protecting public safety.”
Kolluri became president and CEO of NJ Transit effective Jan. 16, 2025, and oversees the nation’s largest statewide public transportation system, which includes bus, light rail, commuter rail and paratransit services. He previously served as New Jersey transportation commissioner, where he chaired the boards of NJ Transit and the New Jersey Turnpike Authority.
Before joining NJ Transit, Kolluri was chief executive officer of the Gateway Development Commission, overseeing the multibillion-dollar Hudson Tunnel Project. His career also includes leadership roles at the New Jersey Schools Development Authority, Rowan University/Rutgers-Camden Board of Governors, Camden Community Partnership, and more than a decade working in the U.S. Congress.
Kolluri holds degrees from Rutgers University and Georgetown University Law Center. His nomination to the Turnpike Authority position is subject to the required approval process.
