The exercise of the powers granted by this article will be in all respects for the benefit of the people of the state, for the increase of their commerce and prosperity and for the improvement of their health and living conditions. Since the operation and maintenance of toll road, bridge or tunnel projects by the authority will constitute the performance of essential functions the authority shall not be required to pay any taxes or assessments upon any toll road, bridge or tunnel project or any property acquired or used by the authority under the provisions of this article or upon the income therefrom. Any toll road, bridge or tunnel project, any property acquired or used by the authority under the provisions of this article and the income therefrom and the bonds issued under the provisions of this article, their transfer and the income therefrom (including any profit made on the sale thereof) shall be exempt from taxation.