"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:
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.
IC 8-15-3-2.5