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Yes, I want want to support My Edmonds News!KeyBank on Wednesday announced the details for its new branch that will open this fall in Edmonds, at former Shell gas station site at the corner of 100th Avenue West and Edmonds Way.
Construction of the 2,740-square-foot Edmonds branch is projected to begin in May, the bank said, part of an extensive effort by Key to expand and enhance its presence in the state.
A video wall will employ eight flat screen televisions to display information to clients. Customer services include safe deposit boxes, four teller workstations, four offices and a conference room for use in meetings requiring customer privacy.
Outside, the branch will feature a drive-up teller lane, 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.
Grand opening festivities will take place at the branch on a Saturday this fall, with details to be announced later.
Why are so many banks locating in Edmonds? How much benefit do they bring to the economy of our city?
Hi Rebecca – as Willie Sutton is reputed to have said about banks “It’s where the money is.” We should be thrilled there are so many banks in Edmonds. It means the community is doing well. As to how much benefit a new branch brings, I do not have an answer to that other than a few new higher paying jobs that a gas station had & more banking choices for us. They certainly don’t add to the sales tax coffers, though.
Rebecca – I certainly agree with your sentiment. The building serves only one use rather than multiple. Banks are not places where the community would go to meet up such as a restaurant or bowling alley (so long Robinhood Lanes). It is not particularly inspiring in any sort of way. The drive up teller, while useful for those in a hurry, just exemplifies Westgate’s auto driven orientation. Another big blah and wasted opportunity, in my opinion.
For one thing, any business locating in Edmonds contributes to the tax base, lowering what the town has to charge residents for property taxes. So even if you don’t bank with Key, this is helping you out.
I think it’s great that Edmonds is considered an attractive location for banks.
John:
What makes you think that the service station owner wasn’t paying property taxes?