With regard to State institutions, the department shall have the power to authorize the construction of separate buildings, or the addition to or improvement of existing buildings, for the purpose of operating and conducting therein a store or canteen for the convenience and benefit of the inmates or patients of such institutions, out of moneys appropriated therefor by the General Assembly, or from moneys derived from the operation of any such stores, or from grants or gifts offered for such particular purpose.
Whenever any such construction, addition, or improvement is made for such purpose, the same shall become the property of the Commonwealth, regardless of the source of the funds used in connection therewith.
62 P.S. § 306