WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Barbara A. Mikulski (D-Md.), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced Senate passage of the 2010 Energy and Water Development Conference Report. The bill includes funding for Western Maryland priorities, including preservation and protection of the Jennings Randolph Lake and funding for the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). The bill now heads to the President to be signed into law.

Included in the 2010 Energy and Water Development Conference Report is $1.69 million for the operation and maintenance of Jennings Randolph Lake in Garrett County. This multi-purpose lake provides water quality, and flood control, water supply and recreation to Western Maryland and the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area.

“This bill is a federal investment in the lives and livelihoods that depend on the waterways of Maryland,” Senator Mikulski said. “The Jennings Randolph Lake is one of Maryland’s great treasures. These funds will help keep the Lake well-maintained so Marylanders can continue to enjoy its beauty and benefit from the new recreational facilities.”

The 2010 Energy and Water Development Conference Report also includes $76 million in the bill for the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), which serves Allegheny, Washington and Garrett counties. ARC is a federal-state partnership that works with the people of Appalachia to create opportunities for self-sustaining economic development and improved quality of life.

“ARC funding is an important part of economic development in Western Maryland. These grants help local businesses get their start and keep local people on the job,” Senator Mikulski said. “I will continue to fight to keep Western Maryland a priority in the federal checkbook.