KeyBank’s newest branch will open on July 25 in Bellevue’s Eastgate community, continuing Key’s branching program in the Greater Puget Sound area.
The state-of-the-art branch is being built at 3240-156th Avenue S.E. on the former site of a Shell service station.
Rick Wirthlin, president of KeyBank’s Seattle-Cascades District, said “The new branch in Eastgate enables us to serve the increasing numbers of residents and business owners east of Lake Washington. This branch will make it more convenient than ever for Eastsiders to bank with Key.”
Wirthlin noted recent media reports indicating that many banks are closing and consolidating branches nationwide. “We know that the branch remains central to the customer’s banking experience, so we continue to invest in the communities of western Washington,” he added.
When the 3,700-square-foot branch opens, it will be Key’s 163rd retail location in Washington. It is part of an extensive effort by Key to expand and enhance its presence in the state, which now comprises a network of branches stretching from Longview, west to Port Angeles, north to Canada, and east to Spokane.
From 2009 to 2012, the bank plans to build an estimated 20 new branches and remodel well over half of its Seattle area branches.
Grand opening festivities will take place at the branch on Saturday, August 20 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch will be served by Applebee’s and sweet treats will come from Chocolati.
Attendees can enter to win a $500 Key Possibilities gift card. Everyone will enjoy music from Oldies 95.7 FM and get to meet Downtown Joe and Jodi from The Bob Rivers Show. Face painting and balloon art will entertain kids.
At the Eastgate branch, visitors will experience large framed photos of local icons and scenes, including the Bellevue skyline, Lake Washington and Bellevue College. They are the work of local photographer Gary Silverstein.
A video wall employs eight flat screen televisions to display helpful information to clients. Customer services include four teller windows and a pair of convenient drive-up lanes. The branch will offer a 24-hour drive-up ATM and a night drop for merchants.
Additionally, Teller 21 systems speed the processing of client paperwork and updated technology ensures energy-efficient lighting and temperature controls. The branch will also incorporate digital merchandising, reducing the need for paper posters and handout materials.
The branch will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Fridays; and 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Saturdays.
Key’s expansion and revitalization program reflects the continued importance of bank branches to consumers and businesses who increasingly seek a mix of channels to conduct their banking business.
About KeyBank’s Seattle-Cascades District
Including the Eastgate office, KeyBank operates 93 branches from the Seattle-Tacoma Airport, north to Canada and east to Spokane.