Priya Jain Takes Center Stage in New Jersey’s Transportation Future, Marks Progress with Portal North Bridge Milestone
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By Adam Rizvi | Editor, The India Observer (TIO): TRENTON, NJ — In a major development shaping the future of transportation in the Garden State, Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill has nominated Priya Jain as the next Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT), signaling a bold push toward modern infrastructure, improved commuter reliability, and streamlined project delivery across the state.
Jain, a seasoned civil engineer and global infrastructure leader, has already begun making her presence felt. In a symbolic and historic moment, she joined Governor-elect Sherrill and Kris Kolluri, President and CEO of NJ TRANSIT, on a ceremonial train ride across the newly advanced Portal North Bridge — a critical infrastructure upgrade over the Hackensack River.
The milestone underscores the urgency of replacing the aging 116-year-old bridge, long considered a bottleneck for hundreds of trains operating daily along the Northeast Corridor. Jain emphasized the importance of reliability, safety, and sustained collaboration between federal, state, and regional stakeholders to ensure seamless transit for New Jersey commuters.
“This is not just about replacing a bridge — it’s about restoring trust in our transit systems and delivering the reliability that commuters deserve,” Jain noted during the event.
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Governor-elect Sherrill described Jain as a transformational leader capable of reshaping New Jersey’s transportation ecosystem.
“With Priya at the helm and Kris Kolluri overseeing both NJ TRANSIT and the Turnpike Authority, we are going to reimagine how transit operates in New Jersey — cutting through red tape, fixing aging infrastructure, and delivering faster, safer commutes,” said Sherrill.
Jain echoed that vision, committing to reducing commute times, accelerating major infrastructure projects, and expanding transit access statewide — including long-awaited progress on the Gateway Tunnel project and improvements in South Jersey connectivity.
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Before her nomination, Jain served as President of the Americas at Mace Group, where she led large-scale infrastructure strategy and execution. Her career includes senior leadership roles at Atkins, CH2M, and Atlas Technical Consultants, overseeing complex, high-value transportation and development programs.
Notably, Jain contributed early in her career to the ARC Tunnel project — a precursor to today’s Gateway Program — handling permitting, environmental reviews, and foundational infrastructure planning.
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Her academic background includes engineering and science degrees from the Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani and advanced studies at the University at Buffalo, reflecting a strong technical foundation paired with strategic leadership experience.
Jain’s nomination also resonates deeply within the Indian-American and broader South Asian community, representing a significant moment of visibility and leadership at the highest levels of state infrastructure governance.
As Editor of The India Observer, this correspondent has long advocated for stronger engagement between policymakers and diverse communities across New Jersey. Jain’s appointment presents a meaningful opportunity to build bridges — not only in infrastructure but also in community trust and representation.
With major global events such as the FIFA World Cup and America’s 250th anniversary approaching, New Jersey’s transportation systems will face increased demand and scrutiny. Jain’s leadership is expected to play a pivotal role in ensuring readiness, efficiency, and long-term resilience.
Adam Rizvi, Editor of The India Observer (TIO), added:
“Infrastructure is not just about roads and bridges — it is about people, access, and dignity. The appointment of Priya Jain reflects both competence and opportunity. As journalists and community stakeholders, we look forward to constructive engagement that ensures transparency, inclusivity, and results for the people of New Jersey.”
Curated by Humra Kidwai
