GARDEN, Mich. (WZMQ) – The Garden Peninsula’s only bank is preparing to close its doors. However, another bank has announced plans to build there.
On July 31, First Bank will permanently shut down operations at its Garden branch on State Street. A post on the bank’s website informs customers that their accounts will be transferred to the Gladstone First Bank, which is nearly a 40-mile drive away.
In response to calls from Garden residents in need of a local banking option, State Savings Bank has secured property along the highway. A sign with the bank’s name and logo has been posted at the site, which is located next to the Mini Mart.
This will be State Savings’ fourth branch in the U.P., joining its locations in Manistique, Gulliver, and Curtis.
“We’re good community partners for all the locations that we’re at,” said State Savings Bank President and CEO Eric Oas. “We like to be involved in the community and bring some value to the areas that we’re in. We’re excited to come down there and serve the community of Garden. I think we’ll be a good fit for the area.”
State Savings Bank plans to start construction by Labor Day, with the goal of opening before the end of the year. To see State Savings Bank’s statement on its Garden branch, visit statesavingsbank.com.
Those with questions for First Bank about its planned Garden closure can email firstbank@first-bank.com.
