Sec. 4. (a) Subject to IC 8-9.5-8-5, the authority is authorized to inquire into the necessity and existing need for the construction, or acquisition by purchase or otherwise or by condemnation, of any interstate bridge between the state of Indiana and any adjoining state over any stream which forms the boundary between the state of Indiana and any such state; or the enlargement, extension of, or improvement of such bridge. For the purpose of such inquiry, the authority may employ engineers, construction experts, and inspectors and fix their compensation.
(b) The authority may cause to be made by competent engineers traffic estimates and reports and pay therefor such compensation as may have been fixed by contract or agreement.
(c) The authority:
(1) shall view and examine the site of any bridge proposed to be built;
(2) shall view and examine any bridge proposed to be acquired under authority of this chapter; and
(3) may subpoena witnesses and hear evidence under oath upon any question necessary in the determination of the question of whether the acquisition or condemnation of such bridge already constructed or the construction of any bridge proposed to be built is necessary in the public interest.
(d) All expenses incurred under this section shall be paid solely from funds provided under the authority of this chapter.
Formerly: Acts 1939, c.79, s.4; Acts 1941, c.217, s.2. As amended by Acts 1980, P.L.74, SEC.262; P.L.109-1983, SEC.33.