The Bucks County Industrial Development Authority announced the appointment of Thomas “TJ” Lonergan Jr. as its new executive director. Effective immediately, Lonergan will lead the authority’s efforts to drive economic growth and promote the expansion of small businesses in Bucks County.
Previously serving as the deputy executive director since 2021, Lonergan will succeed the late Jordan “Pete” Krauss, who served as the authority’s long-time executive director before passing away in April. Krauss was an integral part of the BCIDA’s growth over the last decade from a small organization to the lead economic development agency for the county.
During his tenure as executive director, Krauss helped to establish millions in revolving loan funds for small businesses, kick-start the first of its kind partnership with Startup Bucks to further advance the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the county, and was an active part of several large-scale economic development projects, like the Pennsylvania Biotechnology Center in Doylestown, Trolley Barn in Quakertown and the YMCA Fairless Hills Branch redevelopment.
Lonergan brings with him a wealth of experience in economic development and public-private partnerships. Prior to joining the BCIDA, Lonergan was affiliated with his family’s firm, Mullin & Lonergan Associates, where he played a pivotal role in several large-scale economic development projects throughout the commonwealth.
A proud Bucks County native, Lonergan grew up in Jamison and is an alumnus of Central Bucks South High School and later the University of Pittsburgh, graduating in 2013. His deep ties to the community and strong understanding of its economic dynamics make him uniquely qualified to steer the BCIDA’s endeavors in the coming years.
“Appointing TJ as the executive director was a unanimous decision by our board. His experience and knowledge in economic development, combined with his dedication to Bucks County’s continued growth, makes him an invaluable asset to shepherd the BCIDA forward,” said BCIDA board chairman Stephen Marzullo. “We are confident in his ability to lead the BCIDA to new heights and excited about the positive changes his leadership will bring.”
Upon accepting the role, Lonergan said, “I am thrilled to move into the role of executive director for the BCIDA. Bucks County is my home and where I grew up, so to be able to come back and continue to promote this amazing community is incredibly exciting for me. The work started by Pete Krauss and the legacy he has left on advancing economic development in Bucks County is just the starting point. Now it is my job to continue and build upon that legacy.”
With this appointment, Lonergan stands as one of the youngest economic development leaders in Pennsylvania.
