New Jersey now has a new acting transportation commissioner, Gov. Chris Christie announced Friday.

Richard Hammer has been selected to temporarily replace the previous commissioner, Jamie Fox. The governor is expected to formally nominate Hammer for the position as well.

Hammer previously served as the assistant to the commissioner and has been with the New Jersey Department of Transportation for 33 years. Gov. Christie says Hammer's experience brings "a deep understanding of the transportation challenges that face the Garden State."

During his tenure, Hammer has spearheaded major infrastructure initiatives to improve the state's vast transportation network. These projects include the rehabilitation of the Pulaski Skyway and the reconstruction of Route 35, which was damaged by Superstorm Sandy.

Hammer is from Cream Ridge and attended Rutgers University.