Chris Bernardo, CDS’ President, and Founder, has worked in the downtown revitalization industry for nearly three decades. Chris works closely with BID board members, municipal staff, local law enforcement, elected officials, and district stakeholders to develop and implement a broad range of public space improvement programs, including:

• Supplemental sanitation and maintenance
• Streetscape beautification and amenities
• Quality-of-life management
• Placemaking and public events

Through CDS, Chris has been able to fully realize his devotion to “turning a place around” and working with stakeholders to co-create a vision that is grounded in the practical yet expansive enough to be transformative.

Chris resides in Verona, NJ with his wife and two children. He currently serves on the board of trustees for Downtown New Jersey, New Jersey’s only statewide organization representing place management organizations.

Gerald (Jerry) Blankman, CDS Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, serves as our most senior Operations Manager and Human Resources specialist. Jerry’s 20-plus years of experience in serving as the President and Vice President of the Downtown Jersey City Special Improvement District, is amplified further by his 30 years of experience as a downtown retailer. In his current role, Jerry is the heart of CDS, managing the day to day resources and ensuring overall client satisfaction. Jerry works closely with the CDS management team to develop and implement plans for the operational infrastructure of systems, processes, and personnel to successfully meet the growing needs of clients. Jerry’s greatest sense of accomplishment at work comes from delivering operations and management expertise to every client on a consistent basis, no matter what the size of the project.

Dan has a degree in Civil Engineering and over 40 years of not-for-profit corporation management experience including as Director of Education Activities for the American Society of Civil Engineers and Executive Director for the Institute for Professional Practice. Through his work, he has traveled extensively throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico with specific exposure to architectural, civil and construction engineering projects. When not generating a lot of documentation requiring electronic and paper filing, Dan sits as Chair of the Zoning Board of Adjustment in Verona, keeping him current on issues of urban planning and development.

In his role as Quality-of-Life Public Safety Manager, Fred offers his boundless positive energy and a quick smile to motivate his team no matter what challenges the day might bring. With a Master’s degree in Public Administration and deep experience working within the New Jersey prison system, Fred makes treating everyone with patience and dignity a cornerstone of his approach to working within the public space realm. He credits his parents with instilling within him an abiding legacy of love, morals, integrity and laughter that he shares with not only his own children and family but all those he encounters.

Victoria, a dynamic and results-driven team player, has honed her skills in client support services, office administration, and operations management. As assistant Program Manager, she assists CDS in developing and implementing placemaking activities and overseeing administrative projects for our clients.

Victoria is a proud graduate of Rutgers University, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice.

Natalia Tomusiak supports placemaking, communications, and program operations across Commercial District Services’ portfolio of managed districts. She brings experience in marketing, public engagement, and event coordination, with a strong focus on creating accessible and vibrant public spaces.

Natalia holds a B.S. in Marketing and an M.S. in Business from Rutgers Business School. Prior to joining CDS, she worked in both private and institutional settings, where she developed internal communications strategies, executed social media campaigns, and managed community-focused projects. At CDS, she plays a key role in advancing district initiatives—from market activations to stakeholder outreach—ensuring seamless execution and thoughtful public impact.

Rudy’s career began in the hospitality industry and it shows in everything he does. From analyzing data to designing a new flower installation or overseeing a maintenance program, Rudy’s goal in managing projects is to create a warm and friendly environment, working closely with stakeholders to ensure the vision comes to life through a spirit of collaboration. Rudy has a degree in International Business and has owned several businesses throughout his career, providing him a solid foundation in management and a talent for developing strong customer relationships. Rudy credits his dad’s entrepreneurial spirit, strong work ethic and devotion to family as significant influences in his own approach to life.

Julio Maldonado is an Operations Supervisor known for his reliability, leadership, and deep operational insight. With experience managing complex facilities and public-facing environments, he brings a level of professionalism and structure that elevates every team he leads.

Julio draws on a strong background in campus and commercial operations, which has sharpened his ability to manage multiple priorities, respond quickly to emerging needs, and maintain high standards across the board. At CDS, he leads with precision and accountability—ensuring that field teams stay efficient, responsive, and aligned with district goals.

Dependable and detail-oriented, Julio is a key contributor to CDS’s success in creating clean, safe, and well-managed public spaces.

Jack Velazquez is a key member of the CDS operations team, bringing years of on-the-ground experience to his role as Supervisor. He plays an essential part in the day-to-day execution of services across multiple commercial districts, overseeing field staff, supporting event logistics, and ensuring public spaces remain safe, clean, and welcoming.

With a deep understanding of district needs and a steady, hands-on leadership style, Jack is often the first to arrive and the last to leave. His commitment to quality and consistency has made him an invaluable part of the CDS heartbeat—from managing complex event setups to coordinating maintenance efforts across locations.

Jack’s ability to adapt, problem-solve, and lead by example continues to elevate CDS’s work in the field and strengthen relationships with businesses, stakeholders, and the public

Josh Jones began his journey with CDS in 2020 as a member of the Clean Team. Through his exceptional work ethic, attention to detail, and natural ability to connect with the people of the district, he quickly rose to the role of Ambassador. Today, Josh is a familiar face in Journal Square—always on the ground, supporting local business owners and assisting anyone in the district who needs a hand. His dedication and presence make him an invaluable part of the team and the community he serves.