Commercial real estate executives in the state are hopeful thatGovernor-elect Christie will continue the work aimed at fosteringeconomic development that began under Corzine when he signed the New JerseyEconomic Stimulus Act of 2009 into law in July.

"Being a high-cost border state, New Jersey needs to berelentless in demonstrating its commitment to economicdevelopment," says Michael McGuiness, CEO of the New Jersey chapterof Naiop. "This will be a protracted recovery, so we hope that thenew governor will recognize this positive momentum and supportadditional legislation designed to improve our businessclimate."

McGuiness also urged the incoming governor to reconsider hisopposition to an increase in the gas tax to fund transportationinfrastructure improvements. "Failing to address our transportationneeds is simply not an option if we are to maintain our existingjob base and attract new jobs and boost the logistics industry thatis so critical to our economy," he says. Reducing the cost ofrunning government is priority, as well, McGuiness says.