#United States #BayPort Credit Union #Newport News #Shipbuilding

BayPort Credit Union's Grand Reopening

On October 5, 2026, BayPort Credit Union marked a significant moment in its history with the grand reopening of its 37th Street branch in downtown Newport News. This event doesn't just signal the reopening of a branch; it represents over nine decades of community connections and unwavering service, deeply rooted in the region’s shipbuilding heritage.

A Historical Legacy

Founded in 1928 by a group of twelve shipyard workers, the credit union originally served the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company employees. This long-standing institution, which officially transitioned to BayPort Credit Union in the late 20th century, has now evolved to accommodate more than 156,000 members while still honoring its humble beginnings in the heart of Newport News.

The branch at 3711 Huntington Avenue, which opened as the first outside the shipyard in 1952, has played a pivotal role in the community for generations. Notably, it remains the only financial institution offering services in this area, highlighting its commitment to the local populace.

Renovations for Modern Banking Needs

The renovations, undertaken by North River Construction, have transformed the branch into a more modern establishment with an open-concept design. This new layout is aimed at enhancing member experiences by integrating the teller and service areas into a single welcoming space. Additionally, the branch now features two drive-thru YourTeller® Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs) and two walk-up ITMs, making transactions easier and more efficient for members.

To celebrate the reopening, BayPort collaborated with The Mariners' Museum and Park to unveil a historical display that reflects the deep connections between the credit union, the city of Newport News, and its shipbuilding legacy. This exhibit showcases historic shipyard tools, artifacts, and stunning artwork by Thomas C. Skinner, an acclaimed American realist artist known for his vivid depictions of shipbuilding scenes. During the event, BayPort proudly presented a $25,000 donation to The Mariners' Museum, reinforcing its investment in preserving the local heritage.

Celebrating the Community's Roots

Jim Mears, President and CEO of BayPort Credit Union, expressed the significance of reopening the branch by stating, "There's something especially meaningful about reopening the doors of our very first branch, in the same community where BayPort began nearly 100 years ago. For us, this is more than a renovation—it's a celebration of our roots and the people who helped build BayPort into what it is today."

BayPort Credit Union operates as a democratically controlled institution focused on meeting the needs of its members by offering reliable financial services akin to those of traditional banks. The expansion of services is open not only to local residents but also to families and individuals nationwide through various qualifying organizations.

In the spirit of community support, BayPort continues to lead initiatives aimed at bolstering local education and charitable causes, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all Newport News residents.

Looking Forward

As BayPort Credit Union embarks on this new chapter, the revitalized 37th Street branch stands as a testament to its dedication to the community it has served for generations. With a commitment to innovation and customer service, BayPort aims to provide a welcoming environment for current and future members, ensuring it remains an integral part of Newport News for decades to come.