It is hereby declared to be the policy and purpose of the Commonwealth to cooperate with the United States in a project for the further improvement of the Delaware River between Allegheny Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Trenton Marine Terminal, Trenton, New Jersey. In order to effectuate such policy and purpose, the Department of Forests and Waters acting for, on behalf and in the name of the Commonwealth, is hereby granted the following authority and powers:
(a) To agree to furnish, free of cost to the United States, all lands, easements, rights-of-way and spoil disposal areas on the Pennsylvania side of the river required for the improvement of the Delaware River between Allegheny Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Trenton Marine Terminal, Trenton, New Jersey, and for its maintenance henceforth.(b) To agree to hold and save the United States and its agents free from damages due to the construction and maintenance of the improvements of the Delaware River between Allegheny Avenue, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Trenton Marine Terminal, Trenton, New Jersey, other than claims arising from the tortious acts of agents or employes of the United States.(c) To do all other acts and things necessary or convenient to carry out the powers expressly granted by this act and to effectuate its purpose, including the power to act in the acquisition of lands privately owned in accordance with the provisions of the laws of Pennsylvania.1956, March 14, P.L. (1955) 1271, No. 385, § 1.