AUBURN – Less than two months after assigning its name to the Colisee, Androscoggin Bank is making news again.

The bank is building a new branch in the Mount Auburn Avenue retail plaza, neighboring Ruby Tuesday, Longhorn Steak House, TGI Friday and Best Buy.

“Mt. Auburn Plaza exemplifies the exciting growth that is taking place in Lewiston/Auburn retail development, and Androscoggin Bank is proud to be a part of it,” said William F. Denehy, senior vice president for retail banking, in a prepared statement. “This move represents another step in Androscoggin Bank’s commitment to the L/A area.”

The bank building completes the original plans for that development, which were approved in 2005. Developer George Schott expects to add to the original 14-acre parcel, but has not submitted any additional development plans.

The new branch will encompass about 2,600 square feet, with three drive-up lanes and an ATM. The bank will close its operation across the street at 670 Turner St. when the new facility is complete.

Bank officials have signed a multi-year lease with Schott and expect the new bank will be open in early 2007. Platz Associates is contracted to serve as the project architect and construction manager.

In late June, Androscoggin Bank announced a multi-year naming rights partnership for the Colisée, now known as the Androscoggin Bank Colisée, a 4,500 seat multi-purpose arena and home to the Lewiston MAINEiacs ice hockey team.

Earlier this year, Androscoggin Bank completed renovations on 17,000 square feet of office space at Lewiston’s Bates Mill complex and now uses this space as its center for technology and bank operations.

– Carol Coultas

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