VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Virginia Beach will hold a dedication ceremony on Sunday for a new sign dedicated to recognizing one of the city’s historic Black neighborhoods.
The program will eventually honor 14 historic neighborhoods. It has been spearheaded by Council Member Dr. Amelia Ross-Hammond.
At the end of fiscal year 2023-24, City Manager Patrick Duhaney provided each council member with a $150,000 budget to use at their discretion for a project in their district. Ross-Hammond elected to use her funds not just for District Four but to benefit historic Black communities throughout the city, according to a city press release. She hopes that the program helps to preserve the past, while also recognizing the resilience of these neighborhoods and their residents.
The first four signs are in Beechwood, Burton Station, New Light and Queen City. They are currently under construction. Plans call for additional funding in future budget cycles to construct or improve signs at all 14 historic Black neighborhoods in the city, the press release stated.
The first dedication will take place this Sunday, Nov. 17, in the Beechwood area at the intersection of First Court and Pleasure House roads. The ceremony begins at 12:45 p.m.
