WILKES-BARRE — Fidelity Bank hosted a ribbon cutting event on Thursday at its latest branch on North Franklin Street to mark its growth into the Diamond City.
The branch started operating in October 2023 and became the eighth Fidelity Bank branch in Luzerne County and the 21st overall.
The event was attended by Fidelity Bank employees, community business leaders, members of county and city council, and Wilkes-Barre Mayor George Brown, who expressed his delight in officially welcoming the business to the downtown area.
“We’re excited about the future and collaborating with the staff to enhance the city,” he said.
Guests enjoyed beverages and small snacks in the renovated lobby area of the bank, which was remodeled before its opening last autumn.
“It’s been really wonderful,” said Branch Manager Bryanne Salvo. “I’m new to the area and have been enjoying meeting everyone. The community is fantastic.”
Fidelity President Dan Santaniello emphasized the significance of having a location in Wilkes-Barre, referring to the city as “the core” of Luzerne County and a driving force for economic development.
“We’ve made a significant commitment here. This is not just a branch, but also our Luzerne County headquarters that accommodates our commercial lending team and mortgage lending team,” Santaniello explained.
In line with its commitment to strengthen the city, Fidelity Bank presented a $47,000 check to the Greater Wyoming Valley YMCA on Thursday, as stated by Santaniello, who described the organization as “one of the cornerstones in the downtown community.”
He also revealed the bank's plan to launch a competition to grant a $10,000 award to the non-profit organization with the best idea for expanding the downtown area.
Details about the competition will be revealed at a later time.
