The City of Newport is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Excellence in Preservation Awards, an annual program recognizing outstanding efforts to preserve and enhance the city’s historic architecture.
Established in 1999, the Excellence in Preservation Awards celebrate projects, individuals and organizations that demonstrate a strong commitment to protecting Newport’s historic resources. The program highlights the importance of preserving not only historic structures, but also the stories and community identity they represent.
“In Newport, history is a team sport. The Excellence in Preservation Awards celebrate the people and projects that keep our city’s history part of our everyday lives,” said Historic Preservation Officer, Jennifer Williams. “These efforts ensure that our historic buildings and neighborhoods continue to tell the story of our city for generations to come.”
Nominations are now open for a range of project categories, including adaptive reuse, rehabilitation and restoration for both residential and commercial or mixed-use properties. Additional awards will recognize a Preservation Craftsperson and a Preservation Legacy honoree for exceptional contributions to historic preservation.
Eligible projects will be evaluated based on design sensitivity to the historic character of the property, the use of preservation best practices, the complexity of the work and the project’s overall impact on the community.
The 2026 awards will be presented on May 21, with ceremony details to be announced.
To submit a nomination, applicants must complete the official nomination form and provide supporting documentation, including a description of the project and photographs. Forms may be submitted by mail to the City of Newport Historic Preservation Office, 998 Monmouth St., Newport, KY 41071, or via email.
All nominations must be received by Thursday, April 30 at 6 p.m. Nomination forms are available online at newportky.gov
City of Newport