Community First Credit Union has opened at the Boulevard Crossing redevelopment at 5617 Beach Blvd., its 21st branch.
The Jacksonville-based financial institution said it will serve the more than 21,000 Community First members who live within 5 miles.
The site is between two of Community First’s busiest branches in Arlington and Lakewood in a neighborhood that the credit union said has historically been underserved by financial institution locations.
“Our Boulevard Crossing branch will serve more of our members where they are,” said John Hirabayashi, CEO and president of Community First.
Community First is celebrating the branch opening through Feb. 17. It is at northwest Beach and University boulevards.
The Boulevard Crossing branch features Community First’s new interior and exterior designs, including an open floor plan, upgraded digital technologies and a historical mural depicting the history of Jacksonville’s Southside.
The 2,640-square-foot branch features two drive-thru lanes; two ATMs (drive-up and walk-up); and a night deposit.
Community First bought the 1.22-acre outparcel site and started construction in March 2023.
Auld & White Constructors LLC was the contractor and TTV Architects designed the branch. Both are based in Jacksonville.
Community First Credit Union paid $1.1 million Dec. 28, 2021, for a 1.22-acre outparcel at Boulevard Crossing, the redevelopment project on the parking lot of the former Kmart at 5689 Beach Blvd.
Community First recently opened its 20th branch at Northpoint Village at New Berlin and Yellow Bluff roads and is developing and building branches in Murabella (Branch 22) and Beachwalk (Branch 23) in St. Johns County.
It also plans a branch at Southside Quarter in the Gate Parkway area to replace the credit union’s Baymeadows location.
Community First said its Branch Transformation Project is its comprehensive branch upgrade to improve member service with spaces that provide a modern retail experience.