§ 1299-d. Purposes of the authority. 1. The purposes of the authority shall be the continuance, further development and improvement of transportation and other services related thereto within the Niagara Frontier transportation district, including but not limited to such transportation by railroad, omnibus, marine and air, in accordance with the provisions of this title. It shall be the further purpose of the authority to develop and implement a unified mass transportation policy for such district.

2. It is hereby found and declared that such purposes are in all respects for the benefit of the people of the state of New York and the authority shall be regarded as performing an essential governmental function in carrying out its purposes and in exercising the powers granted by this title.