Business Beat: BankNewport newly renovated, modernized Middletown Branch open

BankNewport Newly Renovated and Modernized Middletown Branch After 14-Month Modernization Project

BankNewport announced the reopening of its completely renovated and modernized Middletown, Rhode Island branch located at 528 West Main Road.  The branch opened its doors to the public on August 13^th, kicking-off a weeklong celebration of activities and events for customers and visitors, highlighting the branch’s transformation and enhanced offerings.

The 14-month, multi-phase renovation began in late June 2023 with a comprehensive demolition of the original building The renovation was preceded by the construction of new Personal Teller Machine (PTM) Drive-Up lanes in July 2022, allowing for the demolition of the existing drive-up canopy and placement of a Temporary Mobile Branch, which opened on June 20, 2023, ensuring continuous service to customers without disruption.

The Middletown branch, BankNewport’s second location since its founding, has been a cornerstone of the Aquidneck Island community since 1961. At 4,057 square feet the new modern building replaces the old 6,000 square foot structure, which included a basement. While the modern design from Catalyst Architecture & Interiors features advanced banking Technology, such as double-sided digital posters and a large backlit LED seagrass logo in the lobby, the overall aesthetic was crafted to meet Middletown’s planning design standards, facilitating a smooth zoning and planning approval process.

“We are thrilled to unveil the newly renovated Middletown branch. The upgrades we have implemented will provide our valued customers with a modern and more convenient banking experience,” said Jack Murphy, President/CEO, BankNewport. “We appreciate our customers’ patience during this transition, and look forward to welcoming them into our new, state-of-the-art facility.”

Catalyst Architecture & Interiors played a pivotal role in the project, leveraging historical knowledge and existing-conditions drawings to coordinate the interrelated engineering work, including structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing. The design direction and approval flowed through BankNewport, which also coordinated civil and environmental engineering.

The branch’s renovation was driven by the need to modernize the facility, which had undergone several renovations and additions since its original opening in 1961, with the last interior renovation occurring in 2004-2005. The phased approach included a transition away from traditional drive-up tellers to PTMs, enhancing service convenience with extended hours for customers. Additionally, the new branch features partner offices and conference rooms, enabling more personalized in-person advice and engagement with various business partners.

Between August 13^th and 17^th, visitors were invited to enjoy an enhanced banking experience, and a variety of activities and events to commemorate the occasion.

About BankNewport:

Founded in 1819 and headquartered in Newport, BankNewport offers a full suite of loan and deposit products and services for families and Businesses throughout Rhode Island. BankNewport is one of the longest-standing community banks in the United States and, as a mutual organization, is committed to the financial success of its customers, employees, and communities. BankNewport has nineteen branch locations, a community lending center in Central Falls, and a commercial lending office in Providence. OceanPoint Marine Lending, a Business line of BankNewport, specializes in consumer marine and recreational vehicle financing programs.

Through its All In Giving program, BankNewport is committed to supporting nonprofits with areas of impact focused on basic human needs, children and families, education, economic security, healthy lives, arts and culture, and the environment. BankNewport has awarded over $9.8 million in grants, sponsorships, and donations over the past ten years to a wide range of nonprofits to help strengthen and enrich lives and communities throughout Rhode Island. Financial education and community service performed by employees totals 10,000 hours annually. For more information, please visit www.BankNewport.com.