ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - The National Trust for Historic Preservation has named Annapolis a national treasure.
The new designation announced Thursday is intended to help protect Maryland's historic capital from flooding and other weather-related events.
Stephanie Meeks, president of the privately funded organization, says local officials have created a national model for how cities can plan to minimize the negative effects of climate change on historic buildings. She says the coastal city faces a double threat of sinking land and rising water levels due to sea-level rise.
Last year, the group awarded a $25,000 grant to help with disaster mitigation planning work. On Thursday, it presented another $5,000 check to help with public outreach and awareness initiatives to help educate property and business owners on flood mitigation strategies.