SPOKANE, Wash.–Beginning today, STCU said it is not just opening all of its branches for the first time in 14 months, it has actually added branches during the pandemic.
Among the branches opening today is the downtown Spokane branch, which has been remodeled, and the branch in Spokane’s historic Hutton Building. In addition, the credit union will reopen the lobbies at two branch locations where drive-through lanes have remained open, the Cheney branch, and the Queensgate branch in Tri-Cities.
STCU reported it added five branch locations during the pandemic, and is scheduled to open its long-anticipated Argonne branch this summer. In addition, when a proposed merger with Coulee Dam FCU is completed, will add another five branch locations.
If all goes as planned, said STCU, it will have 35 branch locations by year’s end, up from 22 at the start of the pandemic.
Social Distancing Still Required
STCU said it is continuing to ask members and staff to abide by social distancing guidelines, and to wear masks if they’re not fully vaccinated.
“This is yet another sign that the Northwest is emerging from the pandemic and fully open for business,” said Ezra Eckhardt, president and CEO. “We know that many in the community still face challenges, and we’re here to help at each and every one of our locations.”
STCU has branch locations in Eastern Washington, North Idaho, Tri-Cities and the Columbia Basin. While drive-through lanes and ATMs have remained open, STCU noted it closed some of its lobbies starting in March 2020. The credit union said the move allowed it to allocate more resources to higher-volume branch locations, and provide more flexibility for staff scheduling as schools shifted to remote learning.
Like other credit unions, during the pandemic STCU reported its members have used its mobile app, online banking and other digital banking tools in “record numbers.”
Commitment to In-Person Service
Despite the trends, STCI said its commitment to in-person service remains strong.
“Visiting a branch remains a foundation to the STCU member experience,” said Chris Severin, STCU vice president of retail. “Our branch staff are ready and excited to open every door for our members.”
The $4.4-billion STCU has more than 227,000 members.