NJ Transit board picks transportation exec as new CEO

The former CEO of the developer behind the new $16 billion Hudson River rail tunnel was chosen Wednesday to lead NJ Transit after the agency’s current chief, Kevin Corbett, departs his position in January.

The unanimous vote by NJ Transit’s board means Kris Kolluri, who was transportation commissioner under Gov. Jon Corzine, will take helm of the agency on Jan. 16.

“He knows this system. He knows infrastructure inside and out, and he knows the state inside and out, and our region,” board member Evan Weiss said of Kolluri shortly before the panel’s vote.

The details of Kolluri’s contract with the agency are still being negotiated.

Corbett, who has led NJ Transit since 2018, on Monday announced he would step down to take a position in higher education effective Jan. 15. His tenure saw staffing-related train cancellations drop to near zero, but other disruptions related to Amtrak infrastructure and mechanical problems related to the agency’s aging fleet rose.

Kolluri spent two years as CEO of the Gateway Development Commission, which oversees the rail tunnel project, before stepping down last month. In addition to his transportation roles, he previously served on the staff of former House Democratic leader Richard Gephardt, as CEO of the Schools Development Authority, and as CEO of the Rowan-Rutgers Camden Board of Governors.

In a statement, Gov. Phil Murphy said he is confident in Kolluri’s ability to lead NJ Transit “as we work to deliver the reliable, efficient, and modernized mass transit system that New Jerseyans deserve.”

“Kris Kolluri has played a vital role in strengthening our region’s transit infrastructure,” Murphy said.

His appointment was met with celebration from some transportation advocates.

“We look forward to collaborating on priorities including pivoting from automatic fare increases and advancing key capital projects such as completing the Portal Bridge and advancing the Gloucester-Camden Light Rail Line,” said Zoe Baldwin, New Jersey director for the Regional Plan Association.

The New Jersey Business and Industry Association, which chaffed at a recently enacted 2.5% surtax on businesses with profits above $10 million that is meant to be a dedicated source of funding for NJ Transit, also welcomed the appointment. Michele Siekerka, the group’s president, said Kolluri will “bring his experience, intellect and passion to this very important position.”