Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, if the estimated cost for the construction of a public improvement is in excess of the threshold established under section 48-01.2-02.1, the governing body shall procure plans, drawings, and specifications for the improvement from an architect or engineer. For a public building in use by or to be used by the North Dakota agricultural experiment station in connection with farm or agricultural research operations, the plans, drawings, and specifications, with the approval of the state board of higher education, may be prepared by an engineer in the regular employment of the agricultural experiment station. For a public building in use by or to be used by the department of transportation for the storage and housing of road materials or road machinery, equipment, and tools, the plans, drawings, and specifications may be prepared by an engineer employed by the department of transportation. Plans, drawings, and specifications of an architect or engineer must be stamped and sealed by the date of the initial bid advertisement.