DOTRA: From a Dream to a Reality - Celebrating 35 Years of Connection
 

Thirty-five years ago, an idea took root that would bring together generations of New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) employees long after their working days ended. Former Transportation Commissioner Thomas Downs initiated the vision for a retirement association dedicated to keeping the NJDOT "family" connected through friendship, shared memories, and social gatherings.

 

Commissioner Downs provided crucial early financial and material support until membership dues could sustain the group. Special thanks also go to key NJDOT staff who helped organize the effort: Helen Budd (Human Resources), Linda Zajac (Communications), Ann Chmieleski, and Lou Tondini (Records and Services). Their behind-the-scenes work turned the dream into the New Jersey Department of Transportation Retirees Association (DOTRA)—a non-profit focused on fellowship for retirees from every facet of the department.​

​

The Founding Years (Early 1990s)

​

​

 

​

​

​

​​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

The response was enthusiastic. Approximately 450 retirees from across New Jersey and beyond expressed interest in joining, with about 245 sending in the initial $10 annual dues.

 

Early events quickly built momentum and camaraderie:

 

• On July 15, 1992, the first luncheon was held at Angeloni’s Restaurant in Trenton, attended by 124 members and guests.

• The first Annual Picnic took place on September 15, 1992, at the Princeton Country Club, drawing more than 85 people.

• The first Holiday Luncheon followed on December 1, 1992.

 

These gatherings set the tone for decades of picnics, breakfasts, holiday parties, and other social events that have kept retirees connected.

​

Building the Foundation (1990s–2010s)

​

Guy LoBue, the founding president, played a central role in getting DOTRA off the ground. Many of the original directors and emeriti—including Chet Andres, Dot Andres, Adrian Lincoln, Philip J. Vecere, Hazel Rockhill, Richard Hobson, Lou Papp, Margaret "Peg" Wieger—helped plan the first picnics, mail early newsletters (DOTLine), and maintain connections in the pre-digital era. Many of these pioneers have since passed, but their legacy lives on in every gathering and shared memory.

​

Chet Andres became deeply involved from the very beginning and served as president for approximately 15 years (roughly 1997 into 2012), providing steady leadership during the organization's growth. Under leaders like these, DOTRA evolved from small gatherings into a vibrant network that once regularly filled rooms with 100+ attendees.

​

The group emphasized volunteerism, with committees handling everything from blood drives and bylaws to activities and chaplain services. 

​

Over the years, DOTRA has published quarterly DOTLine newsletters, hosted spotlight events (such as the 23rd Anniversary Luncheon in 2015 focusing on Bridge & Roadway Design), and maintained traditions like annual picnics and holiday celebrations. Membership has included retirees from all areas of NJDOT operations, fostering stories, friendships, and a sense of continued purpose.

​

DOTRA Today and the Road Ahead

​

Now celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2026, DOTRA remains active as a volunteer-led organization. Current events include spring breakfasts, picnics, holiday parties, and monthly board meetings. While attendance has moderated to around 50 at many events (down from the packed rooms of earlier decades), the spirit of connection endures.

​

Dues remain modest ($10 annually or $75 for lifetime membership), and pre-retirees (NJDOT employees over 50) are welcome to join early. The current board continues the founding mission through event planning, newsletters, a website (dotra.org), and social media.

 

DOTRA's enduring success stems from its simple yet powerful purpose: keeping the NJDOT family together long after retirement. Thirty-five years later, DOTRA stands as a testament to the power of connection. What began as a simple idea has grown into a cherished community that continues to bring former colleagues together. We honor the vision of Commissioner Downs, are grateful for every member, volunteer, and leader who has helped sustain this special organization — and we look forward to many more years of laughter, stories, and fellowship.

​