The NJTPA Board of Trustees honored outgoing Chair John P. Kelly, an Ocean County Commissioner, and Third Vice Chair Bette Jane Kowalski, a Union County Commissioner, as they conclude their time on the Board. Their leadership, partnership, and genuine commitment to strengthening transportation for the people of this region have made a lasting and deeply appreciated impact across all 13 counties the NJTPA serves.
Commissioner Kelly was unable to attend the meeting, but NJTPA Executive Director David Behrend thanked him for his nine years of service on the Board. He also presented Commissioner Kowalski with a plaque recognizing her five years on the Board. Both commissioners did not seek re-election and their terms end prior to the Board’s January reorganization meeting.
“Commissioners Kelly and Kowalski have been invaluable partners in shaping a stronger, safer, and more connected transportation future for the NJTPA region,” Behrend said. “Their thoughtful leadership and dedication to public service have strengthened our work and advanced projects that will benefit our communities for generations. We are deeply grateful for their many contributions and wish them the very best in their next chapters.”
Commissioner Kowalski thanked the Board for the recognition.
“I just want to say it’s been my honor to serve at the NJTPA,” she said after accepting the plaque. “I want to thank my colleagues, all of the staff, and all of our partners, and everyone who supports this organization. We know how vital it is to the economic and social life of this state, and I just appreciate the support and work of all of you.”
Commissioner Kelly helped guide the region through significant transportation milestones. He played an important role in expanding federal investment, guiding the passage of the Fiscal Year 2026-2029 Transportation Improvement Program that supports vital projects benefiting communities throughout the region. He also oversaw the adoption of Connecting Communities: The NJTPA Long Range Transportation Plan, which sets a thoughtful and forward-looking vision for safer and more accessible travel for everyone who lives, works, and moves through the region. Throughout his service, he remained a strong advocate for addressing congestion, improving safety, and caring for essential infrastructure including Route 9 and Ocean County’s extensive network of bridges. His dedication has helped ensure that residents and visitors alike can rely on a transportation system that is safer and more resilient.
Commissioner Kowalski consistently brought compassion and insight to her advocacy for pedestrian safety and support of critical rail investments. She was an active supporter of the Street Smart NJ pedestrian safety program and participated in numerous efforts in Union County to help create safer streets for people walking, biking, driving and using public transportation. Her involvement with the Raritan Valley Rail Coalition reflected her strong belief in the importance of dependable rail service, and she was a steady voice in support of improvements along the Raritan Valley Line and for the Hudson Tunnel Project.
Both Commissioner Kelly and Commissioner Kowalski were dedicated supporters of the NJTPA Local Safety Program, which helps counties and municipalities address high crash locations and implement meaningful safety improvements. Thanks in part to their support, many communities throughout the region have seen safer intersections, improved crossings, and roadway enhancements that make everyday travel more secure for residents of all ages.
The service of Chairman Kelly and Commissioner Kowalski reflects the collaborative spirit and shared purpose that are at the heart of this mission. The NJTPA extends its sincere appreciation to both leaders and thanks them for their years of dedication, their partnership, and the meaningful legacy they leave behind.