27:1A-5.1. Rail freight authority

2. The commissioner, pursuant to subsection (i) of section 5 of P.L.1966, c.301 (C.27:1A-5), may:

a. Plan, design, construct, equip, operate, improve and maintain, either directly or by contract with any public or private entity, a railroad, subway, street traction or electric railway, or connecting roadways and facilities for the purpose of carrying freight in this State or between this State and points in other states;

b. Acquire by purchase, condemnation, lease, gift or otherwise, on terms and conditions and in the manner he deems proper, any land or property, real or personal, tangible or intangible, which he may determine is reasonably necessary for the purposes of this section;

c. Lease as lessor, sell or otherwise dispose of, on terms and conditions which he may prescribe as appropriate, real and personal property, including tangible or intangible property and consumable goods; or any interest therein, to any public or private entity in the exercise of his powers and the performance of his duties under this section, and may, in order to provide or encourage adequate and efficient rail freight service, lease or otherwise permit the use or occupancy of property without cost or at a nominal rental;

d. Upon declaration by him that there are no other prospects for competitive bidding, make, negotiate or award any purchase, contract or agreement pursuant to this section without advertisement.

L.1986,c.56,s.2; amended 1997,c.136,s.11.