The department, in addition to the other powers granted by this article, shall have the express power to do all acts necessary to accomplish the overall planning and beautification of the Capitol Mall contemplated by the 1968 amendments to former Article 1 (commencing with Section 8160) of Chapter 2.8 of Division 1 of Title 2. Such powers shall include, but not be limited to, the active solicitation for and acceptance of any gifts or grants from whatever source available.