File Photo / Jim Neuger
Gene Ardito
July 2, 2024
Portland credit union will expand to Lewiston with construction of new branch
Portland-based cPort Credit Union plans to open a branch in Lewiston next summer, occupying a new building to be constructed on the site of a former Dunkin' Donuts.
“We have been looking at the area for some time and thought this was the perfect location for us,” Gene Ardito, cPort’s president and CEO, told Mainebiz.
“We already have many members who live and work in the Lewiston area, so building this branch will service existing and new customers more effectively, he added. “The Lewiston area has so much growth potential that we felt we could bring our unique products and services to this community and make a difference."
The credit union is teaming up on the project with Hebert Construction, and with Tom Platz of Platz Associates on the design and development. Tom Millett, a broker and partner with Porta & Co., helped cPort acquire the property, which sat vacant for nearly three years, according to a news release.
The branch will be located at 321 Main St., across from Central Maine Medical Center. The new building will be closer to the road than Dunkin’ was, with new pavement and landscaping, according to Ardito.
“LIke what we have done with our other branches, we feel we are, in our own way, improving the dynamics of this highly visible and busy part of Lewiston,” he said. “This branch will serve pedestrian, public transportation and vehicle driven members.”
The credit union usually doesn't disclose the value of its investment, and is still working through pricing on the branch, according to Ardito.
"We have made very good, cost-effective, long-term investments in our branches through the years, and we expect this Lewiston branch to be the same scenario," he said.
Hiring plans
While cPort has not yet named a manager for the new branch, Ardito said the location will be staffed with up to 10 employees.
"We are known for our ability to serve the underserved in our communities, and our staff composition will reflect the community for which we serve," Ardito said.
cPort Credit Union currently has three branches in Portland, plus one in Scarborough and one in Augusta.
With more than $410 million in assets as of Sept. 30, 2023, cPort is ranked No. 9 among the largest credit unions in Maine, according to the 2024 Mainebiz Book of Lists. The credit union, whose roots go back to 1931, serves more than 32,000 members.
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