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.

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