(08/34) TRENTON - At a special ceremony on Saturday, Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Lisa P. Jackson and representatives from the New Jersey Historic Sites Council honored people, groups and agencies for their contributions to preserving the state's precious historic resources.

"This year's award recipients have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to restoring and revitalizing New Jersey's historic buildings and communities," said DEP Commissioner Lisa P. Jackson. "We are proud to honor such deserving people and projects."

From the restoration of a 19th century farmstead in Union County to the renovation of more than 90 historic homes in Camden, this year's award recipients are helping to preserve the historic aspects of the heritage that has shaped New Jersey and its people.

For the past 18 years, the DEP's Office of Historic Preservation and the Historic Sites Council have recognized outstanding contributions to historic preservation in New Jersey. The criteria for the awards broadly recognize people, organizations, community efforts and projects that set high standards for achievement.

The New Jersey Historic Preservation Awards Program is held annually during National Historic Preservation month to increase public awareness of historic preservation; to recognize projects and contributions by individuals, organizations and agencies; and to acknowledge volunteer efforts to preserve historic resources.

This year's award recipients include:

Broad Street Bank Rehabilitation, Trenton, Mercer County
The Broad Street Bank rehabilitation team received an award for the successful transformation of Trenton' s oldest sky scraper into a residential and commercial complex which preserves the building's historic architecture and incorporates environmentally friendly building practices.

Somerset County Bridge, Hillsborough and Branchburg Townships, Somerset County
Recognition went to Somerset County for their commitment to incorporating historic preservation in the rehabilitation of the Elm Street Bridge, which extends over the south branch of the Raritan River.

Thomas Maddock's Sons Company (American Standard Building), Hamilton, Mercer County
The rehabilitation team that transformed the pottery manufacturing plant into an office complex received an award for their exemplary efforts in preserving the historic character of this former industrial site.

Fairview Village Redevelopment, Camden, Camden County
The Fairview Village Redevelopment Team was recognized for their innovative approach to neighborhood revitalization and their outstanding contribution to historic preservation.

Discovery, Offices of the State and Clerk of the Supreme Court, Trenton, Mercer County
Discovery team members were honored for their steadfast efforts to uncover and commemorate the archeological remains of the 212-year old Supreme Court building which is buried beneath the New Jersey State Capitol.

Oswald Nitschke House, Kenilworth, Union County
The Kenilworth Historical Society and their partners received an award for their efforts to save this 19th century farmhouse which was threatened by commercial development, and their work to create a plan for the long term preservation of the building.