The department, with the approval of the commission, may utilize public and private funds appropriated by the legislative assembly in carrying out the purpose of this chapter. The department shall cooperate with the commission and with other states in the reorganization or reopening of any railway line which may have been abandoned by any railway corporation providing railway services within the state. In carrying out the authority conferred by this section, the department may enter into agreements, contracts, or other arrangements with the necessary parties to accomplish the purposes of this chapter.
N.D.C.C. § 49-17.1-04