Sec. 1. The general assembly finds the following:
(1) The eligible counties face unique and distinct challenges and opportunities related to transportation and economic development that are different in scope and type than those faced by other units of local government in Indiana.
(2) A unique approach is required to fully take advantage of the economic development potential of the Chicago, South Shore, and South Bend Railway and the Gary/Chicago International Airport and the Lake Michigan shoreline.
(3) The powers and responsibilities provided to the development authority are appropriate and necessary to carry out the public purposes of encouraging economic development and further facilitating the provision of air, rail, and bus transportation services, projects, and facilities, shoreline development projects, and economic development projects in the eligible counties.