(a) Any public body created under this subchapter may acquire by the exercise of the power of eminent domain any real property that it may deem necessary for its purposes, in the manner prescribed in § 18-15-301 et seq. or § 18-15-401 et seq., or in the manner provided by any other statutory provisions under which one (1) of the public body's participating public agencies may exercise a power of eminent domain.
(b) In exercising the power of eminent domain, the public body shall have the right by its agents or employees to peacefully enter upon any lands, structures, or rights-of-way to make surveys, tests, and measurements thereon, but is liable for any damage that may result by reason of its acts.