Community First Credit Union Purchases Land in Green Cove

Credit Union is in the very early stages of planning for the site

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Dec. 9, 2024 – Community First Credit Union, one of Florida’s largest credit unions, announces it will continue the expansion of its branch network with a planned branch in Green Cove Springs, Florida. Community First purchased a vacant commercial lot at 327 North Orange Avenue on December 4. The 1.22-acre property is slated to become Community First’s third location in growing Clay County.

Development of the branch is in the early stages of planning, but Community First intends to build a 3,100-square-foot, freestanding branch with a drive-thru, two ATMs and the credit union’s signature tower feature. Construction date and opening date have not yet been determined.

Community First is expanding and improving its branch network, aiming to enhance member service by configuring spaces to create a modern retail experience. Designed with Community First's updated branch concept, its new branches have open floor plans, upgraded digital technologies, and a historical mural depicting the history of the locations. 

The credit union has served Clay County for 70 years and has branches in Orange Park and Fleming Island. The credit union has 16,000 members who live in the county. Growth in the area is expected to increase with the completion of the First Coast Expressway toll road connecting Duval, Clay and St. Johns Counties. 

“We look forward to serving the greater Green Cove and South Clay County area with a new branch,” said Sam Inman, president and CEO of Community First. “The area is growing rapidly, and our team is developing strategies to continue to serve our members where they are.”

Community First is undertaking its largest historic investment in its branch network with seven new branches announced or opened since 2022 when it had 19 locations. The credit union recently announced the opening of its Gate Parkway Branch, the start of construction of its Beachwalk Branch (Branch 23), the start of construction for its Callahan Branch (Branch 24) and property purchase for a Treaty Oaks location in St. Johns (Branch 25). 

Jonathan Heldenbrand of ProperCRE represented Community First in the transaction. Connor Marabell of Cantrell & Morgan was the listing agent for the property owned by 356 Real Estate Investments, LLC. 

Community First Credit Union of Florida is a state-chartered credit union based in Jacksonville serving anyone who lives or works on the First Coast. Community First is one of the largest credit unions in Florida with $2.8 billion in assets and serving 175,000 members. Community First has 22 locations and more than 450 employees. A not-for-profit, Community First is a full-service financial institution offering banking, loans, mortgages and investments for consumers and businesses across the First Coast. Visit www.communityfirstfl.org.  

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