The president of the state Senate said Monday that he and his colleagues plan to introduce legislation with the goal of investing in several areas to spur New Jersey's economy.

Democrat Stephen Sweeney announced proposals to cover transportation improvements, early childhood education and college affordability.

"You can't grow an economy without investing in it, and when you have limited resources, you have to take those resources and invest them where you'll get your biggest bang for the buck," Sweeney said.

He and senators appointed to lead studies of each area said there could be calls for tax hikes to pay for some items, including improving roads and other transportation facilities. But he said the state would also look at expanding public-private partnerships and reallocating existing revenue.

During the announcement, Sweeney criticized Republican Gov. Chris Christie for the amount of time spent out of state during his run for president.