HAZLE TOWNSHIP, Penn. — Cross Valley Federal Credit Union is expanding into the Hazleton, Penn. market with a new branch built from stacked shipping containers, a project the credit union says will allow it to open more quickly than a traditional facility.
According to y the Hazleton Standard-Speaker, the new branch is under construction in the parking lot of Church Hill Mall and is expected to open later this summer.
The facility will feature both a walk-in lobby and a drive-thru, giving members multiple ways to access services.
“It’s a different design, very modern,” John Rodgers, a co-owner of Church Hill Mall, told the Hazleton Standard-Speaker in an email.
Jill McGlynn, Cross Valley FCU’s chief experience officer, told the publication that using shipping containers for the branch will significantly shorten the construction timeline compared with conventional building methods, helping the credit union reestablish a physical presence in the Hazleton area.
Plans for Market
McGlynn said the $293.5-million credit union sees opportunities in the growing Hazleton market and hopes to introduce more residents to the credit union model.
The credit union also plans to offer financial education for individuals, families and small businesses and provides bilingual services to support the area’s expanding Hispanic community, according to the report.
CVFCU has approximately 19,000 members and currently operates six branches.
TTCU FCU Also Used Shipping Containers
Cross Valley FCU isn’t alone in turning to shipping containers to build a branch. In Oklahoma, TTCU FCU previously opened a 1,000-square-foot branch built out of shipping containers, according to GH2 Architects.
“By reusing shipping containers to create iconic, community-focused financial centers, TTCU is also pioneering third-place space to serve members better,” the company said in a statement. “The building is an exciting use of four shipping containers to create a feature exterior wall that can promote local events and culture. The interior spaces offer customized financial services and encourage engagement by incorporating a free lending library and coffee bar.”
Photos of the TTCU branch can be found here and below. Photos: GH2 Architects.
