Westerly, Rhode Island... It’s been more than 200 years since Washington Trust opened its first doors in Rhode Island, however, the state’s largest independent bank continues to expand its footprint and commitment to serving communities across the Ocean State. Earlier today, Washington Trust officials, East Providence Mayor Bruce Rogers, and members of the community joined customers for a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the Bank’s sixteenth Rhode Island office located at 587 Taunton Avenue in East Providence.
Washington Trust’s new East Providence location is a full service branch, offering a wide range of financial services for consumers, businesses and investors, including checking, savings and retirement accounts, as well as mortgage, commercial and small business loans. The 5,600 square foot facility features five teller stations, including one with handicap accessibility, and two drive-up teller windows. For 24-hour banking convenience, the new location boasts both walk up and drive-through ATMs, and a secure night deposit facility. To further meet community needs, the branch is staffed by a team of local, bi-lingual professionals.
"Today, we are celebrating Washington Trust’s continued growth and expansion to meet the banking needs of East Providence residents,” commented Joseph J. MarcAurele, Washington Trust Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Washington Trust was founded upon the principles of a community bank, and we continue to strive, each and every day, to be strong community partners."
As part of his remarks welcoming Washington Trust to the city, East Providence Mayor Bruce Rogers stressed the importance of what the bank’s expansion means for the community. “Washington Trust has opened a beautiful new branch in a previously dormant facility,” stated Rogers. “They have helped revitalize our local economy by bringing new jobs to East Providence and by working with local businesses to promote a strong business environment. The Bank’s long history tells us that they have the ability and knowledge to succeed. We look forward to Washington Trust being an anchor in our community for years to come.”
East Providence native Paul J. Tavares serves as the new Vice President and Branch Manager. Tavares has 27 years of banking experience; primarily in East Providence, where he served as Vice President of BankRI. Most recently, he served as Executive Director of the East Providence Housing Authority. He was elected General Treasurer of the State of Rhode Island in 1998 and served two terms. Tavares has a long history of community and public service, serving on both the East Providence School Committee and City Council.
“Banking relationships are built on reputation, trust, confidence and convenience,” said Paul J. Tavares, Washington Trust Vice President, Branch Manager, East Providence. “The Washington Trust Company has a 211 year history of being a sound financial institution; dedicated to the communities it serves. We are excited to bring our quality products, service, and talented staff to the East Providence and east bay communities.”
The Washington Trust Company is a subsidiary of Washington Trust Bancorp, Inc., a $2.9 billion corporation headquartered in Westerly, Rhode Island. Founded in 1800, Washington Trust is the oldest community bank in the nation and is the largest independent bank headquartered in Rhode Island. A state-chartered bank, Washington Trust offers a full range of financial services, including business banking, personal banking, and wealth management and trust services through its offices located in Rhode Island, Southeastern Connecticut and Massachusetts. The Corporation's common stock trades on The NASDAQ Global Select® Stock Market under the symbol WASH. Web site address: www.washtrust.com.