MEMPHIS, Tenn.–Housing and Urban Development Secretary Dr. Ben Carson toured the new Orion Federal Credit Union headquarters during a visit here. The headquarters was constructed in one of several Opportunity Zones aimed to improve blight and economic development. Carson’s stop in Memphis was focused on a nearby and newly announced $950 million “Union Row” building project, located in an Opportunity Zone.
“There is great energy happening here and we’re honored this group could see the impressive work being done,” said Orion FCU CEO Daniel Weickenand. “We’re one of several companies committed to seeing our city prosper by investing in this area. It’s exciting to watch the transformation.”
U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn, U.S. Rep. David Kustoff, Tennessee State Sen. Brian Kelsey and several local leaders joined Carson at the Orion headquarters.
“We’re happy to have had the opportunity to share the true potential of what this location has to offer. Orion is proud to be part of a growing initiative that is a catalyst for economic development in the downtown area,” stated Andre Fowlkes, Orion FCU’s Board Chairman.
Orion’s headquarters are in the former home of the Wonder Bread factory and had been vacant for several years. The new location opened in June, 2019 with the goal of spurring commercial and residential growth, and reinforcing a critical connection between the Medical District and Downtown Memphis.
At right: Business leaders Kevin Adams, Montgomery Martin, and Quincy Jones join Daniel Weickenand, Tn. Sen. Kelsey, U.S. Rep. Kustoff, and HUD Secretary Ben Carson.