History is Made as First Woman Becomes Chair of Burlington County Bridge Commission

PALMYRA, N J – The Burlington County Bridge Commission made history this month with the installation of a new chair and a new board member.

During the agency’s July 9 meeting, Commissioner Sandra Nunes was elevated from her prior post as vice-chair to become the Commission’s new chair, succeeding Matt Riggins, who stepped down from his appointed position. He had served close to 4 years on the agency’s board.

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Nunes is the first woman to serve as the leader of the Bridge Commission’s governing board.

Evesham Mayor Jaclyn Veasy was also appointed as Riggins’ replacement on the three-member board. She was administered her oath of office during the meeting, marking the first time two women have served simultaneously as commissioners.

“Burlington County has a long history of outstanding women leaders, and we’re proud to see women like Sandra and Jackie excel and rise to top leadership posts in our county,” said Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson. “The Bridge Commission is one of our County’s most essential partners, and we have benefited tremendously from Matt’s leadership and vision. While we will miss his presence with the Bridge Commission, we have great faith in Sandra and Jackie. Both have proven to be outstanding leaders who have demonstrated their commitment to public service, and they each possess a great deal of knowledge and experience. We feel confident the Bridge Commission will continue to thrive under their leadership and governance.”

As the Bridge Commission chair, Nunes will lead the agency responsible for operating the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol toll bridges over the Delaware River, as well as several smaller bridges in the county and the Palmyra Cove Nature Park on Route 73.

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The Bridge Commission also acts as the County’s improvement authority and manages the Burlington County Department of Economic Development, which assists existing businesses and others looking to start up or locate in the county.

The Department of Economic Development manages the county’s small business loan program and has partnered with the Burlington County Commissioners to hold 14 small business workshops in 2023 and 2024.

Nunes is a longtime Maple Shade resident who also serves as an elected member of the Maple Shade Township Council. She is a former small business owner and previously served as both a member of the Main Street Maple Shade Board and as the organization’s executive director. She is a former real estate agent and was an assistant art director with PSE&G.

“I am grateful for the trust placed in me and my fellow commissioners and look forward to continuing our mission of providing safe and reliable service on the county’s major toll bridges while also supporting Burlington County’s economic growth and businesses,” said Nunes.

Veasy is a lifelong Evesham resident and is now serving her sixth year as the town’s mayor. During her time in office, she has focused on community involvement, economic development, infrastructure improvements and open space preservation. She is also serving as the 2 ^nd Vice President for the New Jersey Conference of Mayors. In addition to her government service, Veasy works in insurance sales in her professional life and is an active volunteer with her church and the American Cancer Society and Relay for Life.

“I am excited to get to work with my fellow commissioners to uphold the Bridge Commission’s excellent services, while also contributing to the growth of our county’s economy and supporting our residents and businesses,” said Veasy.

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