VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) — The City of Virginia Beach has instituted a program to install signs recognizing the rich history of its 14 historic African American neighborhoods.

Initiated by Councilmember Dr. Amelia Ross-Hammond, the program’s initiative is to help preserve the past, while also recognizing the resilience of these neighborhoods and their residents.

At the end of fiscal year 2023-24, City Manager Patrick Duhaney provided each council member with a $150,000 budget to use at his or her discretion for a project in their district. Rose-Hammond elected to use her funds in benefit of historic African American communities throughout the city.

The first four signs are in Beechwood, Burton Station, New Light and Queen City. Plans call for additional funding in future budget cycles to construct or improve signs at all 14 historic African American neighborhoods.