Stamford Architect Breaks Ground On New Jersey Bank

NORTH ARLINGTON, N.J. — Kearny Bank recently broke ground on an entirely new building that will eventually replace its current North Arlington branch office.

From left to right: John Mazur, Mayor Joseph Bianchi, and Craig Montanaro break ground at Kearny Bank’s North Arlington branch.
Photo Credit: *Contributed*

Cecilia Levine

04/03/2017 3:48 p.m.

The new structure will be built in what is now a parking lot and upon completion, the older building will be razed to make way for parking.

According to the current construction schedule, the new North Arlington branch – a sleek, modern structure of red brick – will be completed and ready for business this coming November.

Kearny Bank has been conducting business in North Arlington for about 130 years, and opened its first boro office in the late 1880s.

“We’re proud to conduct business in North Arlington, and came to realize that our current facility required more than a simple facelift,” Craig L. Montanaro, Kearny Bank’s president and CEO, said.

“Because a complete renovation of the building would have inconvenienced our customers, we decided to start from scratch.

"Based on the design our architects created in collaboration with our in-house team, I’m confident the entire community will be pleased with the final results.”

The new Kearny Bank facility will provide about 4,000 square feet of public space, including a 17-foot ceiling specially designed to flood the lobby with natural light.

Emphasizing sustainability, the new structure will feature solar glass for increased insulation and solar gain, thermal energy efficiency, and LED lighting, along with two drive-up lanes and eight teller stations. Fully compliant with all ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements, the structure was designed by Eric Baker Architects, which maintains offices in Glen Ridge and Stamford, Conn.

The groundbreaking – complete with ceremonial shovels, hardhats, and the symbolic first turning of soil on the site – was attended by North Arlington Mayor Joseph Bianchi, several council members, and Kearny Bank executives and staff.

“There’s something inspirational about a groundbreaking event,” Kearny Bank Chairman John J. Mazur, Jr. said.

“It perfectly symbolizes Kearny Bank’s long-term commitment to our customers and the communities in which we’re privileged to do business.”

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