LEE, Mass. — Greylock Federal Credit Union is investing $2.2 million to purchase and renovate 43 Park St. to support its growing membership.
The credit union purchased the former Trustco Bank for $950,000 from 45 Park Street LLC, according to registry documents. Trustco first opened the branch on Route 20 in 2007 but had since closed.
Greylock officials say the credit union's Lee membership has nearly doubled over the last decade, necessitating a "more roomy, welcoming and functional space."
"This is an investment in our Lee members. This will be a place for building community and strengthening local opportunities," said Greylock President and CEO John L. Bissell in a statement. "Our model of empowerment, inclusion and equity is changing the face of financial services by providing everyone with access to the financial education and resources they need to thrive."
Greylock said it worked with more home buyers in 2022 than any other bank or credit union in Western Massachusetts, providing 31 percent of the mortgages issued in the region. Similarly, it helped more than a third of all local car buyers who took out a loan to pay for their vehicle.
According to Bissell, this is a direct result of Greylock's commitment to partner with its members and give them the support and tools they need to succeed. Greylock's team of 31 Certified Credit Union Financial Counselors provided more than 1,200 free coaching sessions in 2022.
"Financial empowerment through education is a vital part of what sets Greylock apart," said Bissell.
The soon to be remodeled branch is expected to open in late 2023 and will be fully accessible and include multiple teller stations, ample parking, drive-up and video tellers, private offices as well as a community space to host Greylock's education, coaching, and community activities.
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.
Your Comments
iBerkshires.com welcomes critical, respectful dialogue. Name-calling, personal attacks, libel, slander or foul language is not allowed. All comments are reviewed before posting and will be deleted or edited as necessary.
No Comments
Lt. Governor Driscoll Visits Great Barrington Businesses
By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff
Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, Housing Secretary Ed Augustus and state Rep. Leigh Davis are ready to chop wood out back of Pleasant and Main.
She was glad to see an array of small-business owners thriving, and the eclectic items that Great Barrington has to offer.
"We know that the vibrancy of communities can often be defined by what's happening on Main Street," she said.
"It's great to be here in Great Barrington and see so many independent entrepreneurs who are running really, not only fun, but businesses that are doing well, and we want to try and find ways to uplift and support that work moving forward."
State Rep. Leigh Davis coordinated a business tour with Pleasant and Main Cafe and General Store, Robbie's Community Market, and Butternut Ski Mountain. While downtown, Driscoll also stopped at Coco's Candy and Rob's Records and Audio.
Earlier that day, the Healey-Driscoll administration announced $33.5 million in federal CDBG funds at the Housatonic Community Center. Great Barrington, in conjunction with Egremont and Stockbridge, has been allocated $ 1.25 million to rehabilitate approximately 14 housing units. A new Rural and Small Town Housing Choice Community designation for its Housing Choice Initiative was also launched.
Davis emphasized the significance of the state announcing these dollars in the small village of Housatonic.
Craig Bero, founder of Pleasant and Main, prepared desserts and hors d'oeuvres for the group at his cozy cafe across the street from the Housatonic Community Center. Bero opened more than a decade ago after migrating from New York City, and Pleasant and Main offers sustainable, organic meals for an affordable price while enjoying the museum of antiques that is the restaurant.
Third-grade students in Brandon Boule's art class at Lee Elementary School showcased a diverse selection of men's apparel at Zabian's Clothing, located at 19 Main St.
click for more
State Secretary of Housing Edward Augustus visited Berkshire County on Tuesday to hear about the region's needs and see opportunities for adding more units. click for more
The Wildcats marched 84 yards in a drive that consumed 11 minutes, 17 seconds of the third quarter for a critical touchdown in a 48-36 win over Boston’s Cathedral High in the quarter-finals of the Division 8 Tournament. click for more
The Norman Rockwell Museum will showcase two new collections on Saturday: one highlighting a local artist and the other exploring publications from the Jazz Age. click for more