Fernandina Beach Main Street and the City of Fernandina Beach Announce The Winners of the 2026 Preservation Awards

Fernandina Beach Main Street and the City of Fernandina Beach proudly celebrated the community’s commitment to historic preservation during the 2026 Preservation Awards Ceremony held on May 12 at the Peck Center. The bi-annual event recognized outstanding projects, individuals, and community partners whose work helps preserve the architectural character of Fernandina Beach.

The evening welcomed public officials, preservation advocates, contractors, architects, homeowners, and community members for a celebration of the projects that continue to shape and protect the city’s historic identity. Hosted by Fernandina Beach Main Street in partnership with the City of Fernandina Beach, the ceremony highlighted the importance of thoughtful restoration, compatible design, and preservation-based revitalization throughout the historic district.

The efforts of key individuals and committees were recognized, including the Fernandina Beach Main Street Planning Committee of Veronica Byrnes, Jose Miranda,  LuLu Huppmann, FBMS Design Committee, chaired by Christie Walsh Myers. Special thanks were given to the judges: Phyllis Davis, Tammi Kosack, Lorelei Jacobs, and to the event sponsors: Residence Inn by Marriott, and the City of Fernandina Beach.

2026 Preservation Award Winners

Renovation / Rehabilitation AwardWinner: 501 Cedar StreetArchitect: Michael StaufferContractor: Built to Last ConstructionConsultant: Rob Psulkowski

Sensitive Addition AwardWinner: 232 South 7th StreetHomeowners: Robert & Stacy McKenzieContractor: Built to Last ConstructionConsultant: Rob Psulkowski

New Construction AwardWinner: 511 Ash StreetHomeowner: Todd KempArchitect: Shelly RawlsEngineer: Pi-Tech, Inc.

Adaptive Re-Use Award

Winner: Amelia River Waterfront ParkOwner: City of Fernandina Beach

Architects: Thomas & Hutton - Charles Ezell and Jon Garceau (Civil/Landscape); Bhide & Hall (Pavilion)

Engineer: Asa Gillette, Gillette & Associates

Contractor: KBT Contracting Corp

Consultants: CRA Advisory Board, Parks & Rec Advisory Board, Historic District Council, City Commission

John M. Cotner Preservation Champion Award

The evening concluded with the presentation of the prestigious John M. Cotner Preservation Champion Award to Rob Psulkowski for his longstanding commitment to historic preservation in Fernandina Beach. Since relocating to the community in 2013, Psulkowski has completed more than 65 preservation and restoration projects throughout the historic district and has become widely recognized for his craftsmanship, mentorship, and dedication to preserving historic integrity.