JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Tampa-based GTE Financial Credit Union is preparing to expand across the state into Northeast Florida with plans for two Jacksonville-area locations.
According to the JaxDaily Record and statements from the credit union, thecredit union is building out an office at The Palms at Gate Parkway in South Jacksonville and appears to be planning a second site at Intracoastal Plaza at 14444 Beach Blvd., the publication reported.
GTE Financial said in a May 1 emailed statement, as reported by JaxDaily Record, that it expects to open its first full-service retail branch in Jacksonville’s Duval County in late 2026, followed by a second location in 2027.
“The expansion into Jacksonville is part of GTE Financial’s long-term commitment to meaningful growth, recently approved by the NCUA to serve six new service areas throughout the state of Florida,” Channing Thornton, managing director of retail member sales, said in the statement.
Local Leaders Being Recruited
Thornton added, according to JaxDaily Record, that GTE Financial is recruiting leadership and relationship officers in the market and will prioritize opening locations in Jacksonville while exploring additional sites statewide.
The Tampa-based institution, chartered in 1935, reports approximately $3 billion in assets, more than 230,000 members and 24 community financial centers across West Central Florida.
The JaxDaily Record reported that the city is reviewing a permit for GTE Financial to build out 1,983 square feet at 7570 Gate Parkway, Unit 105, at an estimated cost of $1.75 million. Plans for the site include three offices, a breakroom, lounge, lobby, rotunda and a walk-up ATM.
The property is owned by Ash Properties and is part of The Palms at Gate Parkway, a three-building complex near Interstate 295 and Butler Boulevard. The building also houses tenants including The Chocolate Bar, Foxtail Coffee Co. and Fore Score Golf Tavern, the publication reported.
Second Office Location
The JaxDaily Record said site plans also show a second GTE Financial office at Intracoastal Plaza, also owned by Ash Properties, as a 3,392-square-foot building on an outparcel next to Shores Liquors.
Job postings cited by the publication indicate the credit union plans to open two “Financial Community Centers” in Jacksonville, with hiring underway for personal bankers and member relationship officers at locations identified as Jacksonville Intercoastal and Jacksonville Palms, with target hire dates in September.
According to the postings, the member relationship officer role will focus on assessing members’ financial needs, recommending products and services, and building relationships while supporting growth in the Jacksonville market.
The credit union also encouraged candidates to “join us as we get to know the Jacksonville community, support local families, and create a positive impact for both current and future members,” according to JaxDaily Record.
