The Texas Department of Transportation may:
(1) purchase, construct, lease, and contract for public transportation systems;
(2) use the expertise of recognized private authorities or consultants to plan and design public and mass transportation systems;
(3) represent this state in each public and mass transportation matter before a state or federal agency;
(4) subject to Section 455.052, apply for and receive a gift or grant from a governmental or private source for use in performing the department's functions under this chapter;
(5) contract as necessary to perform a function under this chapter; and
(6) recommend legislation necessary to advance this state's interest in public and mass transportation.