1. The state highways as designated in section 227.020 shall be under the jurisdiction and control of the commission; and the commission shall maintain such roads in a state and manner consistent with the present condition of such roads; provided, that when the roads included in said state highway system have been constructed by the commission, or acquired as provided for in sections 227.120 to 227.150 and section 227.170, they shall be maintained by the commission and kept in a good state of repair at whatever cost may be required.

2. The cost of repairing and maintaining said roads shall be paid out of the state road fund on the warrant of the state auditor, when such payment shall be ordered by the commission. For the purpose of maintaining and repairing such roads, the commission shall have authority to purchase or otherwise acquire, all necessary tools, machinery, supplies and materials, and may employ the necessary labor therefor, and the commission may provide for the proper repair and maintenance of such roads, or any portion thereof, by contract, which shall specify the nature and character of the work to be done. The commission shall also provide for a system of patrol for maintaining and repairing these state highways, so that such highways may be effectually and economically preserved and maintained.