For more than 50 years, the New Jersey Alliance for Action has served as a driving force for infrastructure and economic development in the region.
It’s never once rested on its laurels.
With President Jerry Keenan at the helm since 2020, the organization has moved with new energy — expanding its digital presence, launching a podcast, creating new business opportunities for thousands of construction industry decision-makers and continuing to build on its reputation for hosting some of the most impactful events in the state.
In the past few years, the Alliance has updated its website, become a regular presence on social media and has a podcast aptly titled: Under Construction with Jerry Keenan.
What’s driving that?
Keenan easily explains.
“It’s about meeting people where they are,” he said. “We know our members are busy, and we know how important it is to keep the Alliance top of mind. The new website makes it easier to find and share information. Social media lets us celebrate our members and keep the conversation going in between events. And the podcast? That’s just a natural extension of our mission. It gives folks a deeper look at the people and projects shaping New Jersey.”
Like any good project, all the parts seemingly come together perfectly, too.
“All the new efforts complement our other work so well,” he said. “One of my favorites is my weekly Bottom Line video segment. I like the Bottom Line because it gives us a chance to highlight members, detail our opinions on important issues and speak about critical events across New Jersey.
“All of those things are really at the heart of what we do: Advocacy for our members and advocacy for responsible development and critical events around the region.”
We sat down with Keenan to discuss what makes the Alliance special, how it stays above the political fray and why it’s more relevant than ever.
Here’s a look at the conversation, edited for space and clarity:
BINJE: The Alliance has been around for 50 years, and you’re just the third president. That must say something about the organization and the people who work there.
KEENAN: It absolutely does. The longevity of leadership speaks to the consistency, integrity and long-term relationships that are baked into this organization. Our staff, our board and our members all share a sense of mission that goes well beyond the moment. We’re here to build things that last — infrastructure, yes, but also trust, networks and opportunity. That kind of continuity is rare, and it’s something I don’t take for granted.
BINJE: When someone joins the Alliance for Action, what do they get? What does membership unlock?
KEENAN: They get access — real access — to decision-makers, opportunities and insights they won’t find anywhere else. Our members span every corner of the industry: contractors, engineers, public officials, utilities, financial institutions, labor and beyond.
When you’re part of the Alliance, you’re not on the sidelines; you’re in the room. And that can make all the difference when you’re trying to win work, understand what’s coming next, or simply stay ahead of the curve.
BINJE: Your live events are really something. I’ve heard your members will hang around long after an event is wrapped up, networking and sharing ideas. Is that common?
KEENAN: It is, and we take that as a huge compliment. People don’t just show up for the speakers or the breakfast. They come to make meaningful connections. It’s not unusual to look around a room 30 minutes after the program ends and still see people talking, sharing ideas, following up on business opportunities. That’s the kind of environment we work hard to create. The real value of an Alliance event doesn’t end when the program does.
BINJE: A lot of organizations host events or provide industry updates, but the Alliance’s live events seem to be where news often is made. Why do you think that is?
KEENAN: It comes down to trust and timing. Our speakers know they’re talking to an audience of professionals who get things done, which gives them the confidence to share meaningful updates. Whether it’s the Gateway CEO announcing new job numbers or a commissioner previewing a billion-dollar infrastructure plan, people choose our stage because they know it matters. And our members come to our events expecting to hear something new. That’s a powerful combination.
BINJE: How are you able to thread the needle as a nonpartisan organization at a time when the world seems so divided?
KEENAN: We stay focused on what unites people — good jobs, safe communities and smart investment, all driven by our mission, which is to build a better future across New Jersey — whether they live here, work here or visit here.
Infrastructure isn’t red or blue. It’s roads and bridges. It’s clean water and reliable power. It’s schools and transit systems that work. By keeping our eye on the big picture and showing up for everyone who wants to make New Jersey stronger, we’re able to build coalitions that cut across the political spectrum. That’s the power of the Alliance.
