(a) For the purpose of this act the term "contractor" means an individual, general partnership, limited partnership, joint venture, association, corporation or a combination of any of the foregoing who does or undertakes for compensation the construction of any public works.
(b) The term "public works" for the purpose of this act means the construction, alteration, repair, improvement, moving, wrecking or demolition of any highway, road, railroad, earthwork, building or other structure, project, development or improvement, whether it be in whole or in part.