From First Bank

 

SOUTHERN PINES — First Bancorp, the parent company of First Bank, further strengthens its position as the premiere community bank in the Carolinas with the opening of a new location in Washington.

The branch offers greater accessibility to the community a block from Washington Square Mall and right at the epicenter of the city. It also features an improved drive-thru and extended business hours.

“Maintaining and enhancing trusted and personal connections with the community is important to First Bank, and with the newly renovated branch location in Washington, we’ll be able to better provide the one-on-one, technology-enhanced services our clients need to thrive,” said Richard Moore, chief executive officer of First Bancorp. “Upgraded amenities such as a larger drive-thru will also allow residents to enjoy a convenient banking experience right in their neighborhood.”

The new drive-thru will be supported by experienced associates, as well as provide access to a full-service ATM, along with offering earlier hours starting at 8:30 a.m. each weekday and increased capacity allowing for multiple cars at a time.

Customers will also have the opportunity to take advantage of best-in-class technology within the branch, such as iPads for quick and easy access to all of First Bank’s offerings. Additionally, First Bank continues to serve downtown Washington with another full-service ATM located at 132 W. Second St., where residents may make withdrawals and other traditional ATM transactions. There will be two dedicated parking spaces for ease of access and convenience.

First Bank remains committed to building strong relationships with the Washington community and providing the families, individuals and businesses the right combination of award-winning banking solutions to help fulfill their financial dreams.

“We have a long-trusted record in Washington and throughout North Carolina, so we’re excited to provide our clients all the enhancements the new branch location will bring, while also continuing to deliver our hometown touch,” said William Taylor, senior vice president and area executive of First Bank.

Washington is the ninth branch opening in North Carolina in the last three months, with the most recent ones in Rockingham and the SouthPark area of Charlotte. In July, First Bank also announced an agreement to acquire Carolina Bank Holdings Inc., the parent company of Carolina Bank, which operates eight branches and three mortgage loan offices in Greensboro and larger Triad region. The acquisition is expected to close in late 2016 or early 2017, and is subject to customary conditions, including regulatory approval.

The new Washington branch officially opened its doors Oct. 24 at 639 W. 15th St. Learn more at www.LocalFirstBank.com.

A previous version of this article contained errors.