The PACA Heritage Awards were established in 1985 to recognize outstanding projects and individuals who have contributed to historic preservation efforts in east-central Illinois.  Nominations are sought year round, with a special effort in the fall.  The Heritage Award Committee reviews the nominations and awards are presented at the PACA Annual Membership Meeting (spring).

Categories include specially noteworthy Residential and Commercial rehabilitation projects; Institutional (schools, churches, governments, etc.) projects that have kept the historic character of their buildings; conservation, educational, or restoration Landscape projects; and projects that have restored a Landmark building or site.  Neighborhood Heritage Awards are given to rehabilitation projects that help stabilize a historic neighborhood or area, while Historically Respectful Design Awards are for additions or new construction that integrate well into the historic streetscape.  Adaptive Use Awards are for projects that have converted a building to a new use while keeping  its historic character; and Place in History Awards are for institutions that have continued to operate in a historic setting for 100 years or more.  Special Heritage Awards are given to individuals or groups who have worked to preserve a special aspect of our heritage or who have advanced the cause of historic preservation in our community.  Other awards are at the discretion of the Heritage Award Committee.

The following is a list of Heritage Awards.