"Operator" refers to one (1) or more private individuals or entities that enter into a public-private agreement to do one (1) or more of the following with respect to one (1) or more tollways:

1. (1) Planning.
2. (2) Design.
3. (3) Development.
4. (4) Construction.
5. (5) Reconstruction.
6. (6) Maintenance.
7. (7) Repair.
8. (8) Financing.

9. (9) Operation.

   A public entity may provide services to an operator as a subcontractor or subconsultant without affecting the private status of the operator and the entity's or operator's ability to enter into a public-private agreement.

As added by P.L.47-2006, SEC.20.