California Code, Streets and Highways Code - SHC § 760

(1) Acquire any real property or interest needed for state highway purposes and described inthe department's written recommendation.  The board shall proceed, if necessary, to condemnthe real property or any interest therein.  The title to the property or interest may be taken in the name of the state or the county.  The resolution of the board is the only preliminary procedure required prior to the acquisition of the property or interest, or to the commencement of a condemnation proceeding, except that if the acquisition is by eminent domain, the resolution shall be one that satisfies the requirements of Article 2 (commencing with Section 1245.210) of Chapter 4 of Title 7 of Part 3 of the Code of Civil Procedure.

(2) Contribute bridges, fencing, money, labor, materials, and appurtenances toward the construction of state highways within the limits of the county.