Section 1493-G. Construction and purchase contracts

The authority shall let
  contracts for construction in the same manner, so far as practicable, as
  is  provided  by  law  for  contracts of the city, except that where the
  estimated expense of a contract does not exceed five  thousand  dollars,
  such  contracts  may be entered into without public letting.  Nothing in
  this section shall be construed to limit the power of the  authority  to
  do  any  construction  directly by the officers, agents and employees of
  the authority. Contracts for the  purchase  of  supplies,  material  and
  equipment  shall  be  let  in  the same manner as is provided by law for
  contracts of the city.