STAFF REPORTNorth Country This Week

POTSDAM – North Country Savings Bank’s plans for a complete redevelopment of its Potsdam branch took shape Tuesday with the start of demolition work.

The move marks a major investment in the future of banking in the North Country.

The project, which has received final approval from both the Bank's Board of Trustees and the Village of Potsdam, will replace the existing branch with a newly constructed facility designed around a modern, customer-focused banking experience.

"This new branch represents an investment not only in our facilities, but in the future of relationship banking. We are creating a space that reflects how people want to bank today while preserving the personal service that has defined North Country Savings Bank for generations,” R. Brian Coakley, President and CEO of North Country Savings Bank said.

The new facility will incorporate a new design that removes traditional barriers between customers and staff. Officials say the changes aim to provide greater convenience and accessibility as well as reduce wait times.

The project began with the demolition of the Cubley House at 33 Main St. on June 9. 

During the construction, the bank will have a temporary building/lobby setup on the back of the property where customers can continue in-person banking, and the drive thru lane and drive thru ITM will continue to function. The entrance and exit lanes have changed, so customers will want to be mindful of that and follow directional signage.

There is no longer a night dropbox at the Potsdam location but customers can make deposits using the “interactive teller machine” or on their mobile app during non-business hours. 

The entire project is expected to be completed next year, and customers can expect continued access to North Country Savings Bank services throughout the process.

"For more than a century, Potsdam has been an important part of North Country Savings Bank’s story," said Andrew McMahon, Chair of NCSB’s Board of Trustees.