A district may construct works across or along any street or public highway, or over any of the lands which are the property of the State, and it shall have the same rights and privileges appertaining thereto as are granted to municipalities within the State. The district shall restore any such street or highway to its former state as near as may be, and in compliance with local ordinances, and shall not use it in a manner to unnecessarily impair its usefulness. A district may also construct its works across any stream or watercourse.