NJ Transit's Kolluri to maintain CEO role, take on tollway responsibilities

New Jersey Transit President and CEO Kris Kolluri will retain his role under New Jersey Gov.-elect Mikie Sherrill's administration. Once inaugurated on Jan. 20, Sherrill also will nominate Kolluri as executive director of the New Jersey Turnpike Authority (NJTA). The New Jersey Senate will then review and confirm his appointment. 

If approved for the dual role, Kolluri will oversee operations of the transit agency and the state's two tollways, allowing for a unified approach to improving transportation and commutes in the state, New Jersey government officials said in a press release. Kolluri was appointed NJ Transit president and CEO on Jan. 16, 2025.

If approved by the Senate, Kolluri will take on the Turnpike Authority position from Jim Carone, who plans to retire after a 40-year career at the authority, according to a report from the New Jersey Globe.

The transition comes as the state prepares to host FIF World Cup 2026 matches in June. NJ Transit and NJTA are preparing for increased system ridership and more motor vehicle traffic from "tens of thousands" of visitors, New Jersey government officials said. 

Meanwhile, NJ Transit on Jan. 9 unveiled the first renovated train for the River Line light-rail service. In September 2025, NJ Transit started to take on maintenance and operations responsibilities on the line from Alstom.

The authority will oversee right-of-way and station maintenance, with vehicle maintenance contracted to Kinkisharyo International LLC, NJ Transit officials said in a press release. During the operational transition, the authority and Kinkisharyo have been overhauling the vehicles' engines and renovating passenger compartments. 

NJ Transit plans to upgrade 14 light-rail vehicles while simultaneously preparing a request for proposals to fully replace the River Line fleet.