Hammer named NJDOT commissioner

Written by Jenifer Nunez, assistant editor

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie tapped New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) veteran Richard Hammer as the agency's acting commissioner and will formally nominate him to succeed Jamie Fox.

 

Hammer is currently assistant commissioner responsible for the department’s Capital Program Management Section where he manages a workforce of approximately 1,100 employees throughout six divisions.

“I am pleased to name Richard Hammer as our next transportation commissioner,” said Gov. Christie. “Rick’s 33-years of service to New Jersey and the department bring a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the transportation challenges that face the Garden State. I appreciate him stepping up to this next challenge in his long career of public service at the department and look forward to having him join my cabinet.”

During his tenure as assistant commissioner, Hammer has spearheaded major infrastructure initiatives to improve New Jersey’s vast transportation network. These projects include the $1.2-billion rehabilitation of the 3.5-mile Pulaski Skyway, the $265-million reconstruction of Route 35 damaged by Superstorm Sandy, as well as the ongoing $1-billion “Direct Connect” program in Camden County. 
His 33-year career includes 14 years with the Bureau of Structural Evaluation in the former Division of Bridge Design and 10 years in the Division of Project Management, where he served as a program manager overseeing major statewide bridge projects and ultimately as division director.

 

Tags: