Kris Kolluri, the highly regarded executive and transportation thought leader who currently is the CEO of NJ Transit, will add to his duties this year.
Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill announced Thursday that Kolluri is her pick to lead NJ Transit and her nomination to be the executive director of the N.J. Turnpike Authority.
The news will be viewed as a big win for many – for many reasons:
- This dual role will allow Kolluri, a noted expert, to oversee day-to-day operations of both agencies to unify strategy, rethink how we move people, and ultimately improve commutes for the residents of New Jersey.
- It is a lesson in public service and dedication. It was announced Kolluri only will take a $1 salary from the Turnpike Authority.
- And, most importantly for 2026, it means Kolluri will be in charge of NJ Transit during the FIFA 2026 World Cup.
Kolluri, who has a long history of success in this space, said he is eager to take on the challenge.
“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,” he 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.
“Gov.-elect Sherrill has been laser-focused on improving New Jersey’s transit systems since her time in Congress, and I know that her administration will share that same focus, for the World Cup and beyond.”
Sherrill obviously is thrilled to have Kolluri in these key roles. “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,” she said.
Kolluri came to NJ Transit after serving as CEO of the Gateway Development Commission. Decades ago, he served as Commissioner of the Department of Transportation under Gov. Jon Corzine.
Sherrill said that experience is what is needed for the future.
“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,” she said.
Of course, the hope is that experience will come into play when millions of people from outside the state (and country) come to New Jersey for the World Cup.
Having Kolluri leave before the event was of great concern to many involved.
“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,” Sherrill said.
Transportation systems for the FIFA Club World Cup last summer worked well, though Kolluri was the first to say, transportation is only as good as its last trip.
