By Henry W. and Pat C.
Since 1997, Sidney Federal Credit Union (SFCU) has had a branch in the Quickway building on West Main Street in the Village of Hancock. The “micro-branch” occupies only 330 square feet in the corner of the convenience store, but it offers the same services as any other branch. However, after 12 years of operating in such tight quarters, SFCU is ready to branch out.
On October 15, SFCU officials held a ground-breaking ceremony for their new branch office at the former site of the Delaware Inn on West Front Street in the middle of the village.
The ceremony began with a few opening remarks from SFCU President and CEO, James A. Doig, and Chairman of the Board James Suriano who said,“We feel the best is yet to come; we just ask for everyone’s patience.”
Hancock Mayor Celia Vazquez said she is happy with the new project and knows it will provide economic support for the community. “People are going to see a big company investing in the village,” said Vazquez.
New York State Assemblyman, Clifford W. Crouch, also sees the new development as a something positive for the Hancock community. “This project will enhance the beauty of Hancock,” said Crouch. He also noted that the added space will make SCFU more efficient.
The guests had a chance to view an architectural model of the new 1600-sq. ft. building. Norman J. Davies, the architect on the project, provided a design which is similar to the look of the storefronts throughout the village.
