(a) If a project or program cannot proceed to actual construction because comparable replacement sale or rental housing is not available, and the Commissioner of Transportation for transportation projects or the Commissioner of Housing for any other state agency program or project determines that such housing cannot otherwise be made available after consultation with the chief executive officer of the municipality within which such project or program occurs, he may take such action as is necessary or appropriate to provide such housing by use of funds authorized for such project or program, the provisions of any other state statute to the contrary notwithstanding.
(b) No person shall be required to move from his dwelling on or after July 6, 1971, on account of any state agency project or program unless the Commissioner of Transportation for transportation projects or the Commissioner of Housing for any other state agency program or project is satisfied that replacement housing, in accordance with subdivision (3) of subsection (b) of section 8-271 is available to such person.