Three historic neighborhoods in Newark are being recognized by Washington.

The James Street Commons District, the Ironbound and the Branch Brook Park Alliance have been designated as historic communities.

It’s the first time President Obama’s Advisory Council on Historic Preservation is honoring Brick City.  

Newark historian Dr. Clement Price is Vice Chair of the council. He says preserving the city’s past and recognizing the need for new growth go hand in hand.

“It underscores, I believe, the, let’s call it the rituals of citizenship where people learn to become better citizens by appreciating what their forebears have left for them to valorize and to protect.”

Price says these prestigious awards aren’t just a pat on the back for community groups. They also help protect historic structures from demolition and increase neighborhood property values.