The Register-Guard
http://www.registerguard.com/Umpqua to open temporary Newport branch
Until a new office opens later this week, a mobile location is operating in the burned bank’s parking lot
BY ILENE ALESHIRE
THE REGISTER-GUARD
Published: Wednesday, Mar 14, 2012 05:01AM
NEWPORT — Umpqua Bank is moving its Newport branch to a temporary location after a fire destroyed most of its existing branch on Highway 101 Monday morning.
The bank is hoping to have the temporary location at 141 N.W. 11th Ave., Suite A, open later this week, spokeswoman Jane Taber said Tuesday.
In the meantime, Umpqua has set up a mobile location in the parking lot of the fire-damaged branch at 1250 North Coast Highway. The mobile location is staffed by Umpqua employees from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is able to accommodate limited customer transactions, Taber said, including deposits, withdrawals and check cashing of $500 or less.
“Umpqua Bank is also waiving all foreign ATM fees for our Newport customers in order to allow them convenient access to their funds,” she said.
Taber said the bank is continuing to work with local authorities to secure the location where the fire occurred and has begun an assessment of the extent of the damage.
“We will provide all customers with additional information, including updates on accessing safe deposit boxes, as soon as possible,” she said.
Until then, bank customers with questions can stop by the mobile location or call 866-486-7782, she said. When the Newport Fire Department responded to the fire at 9:17 a.m. Monday, it appeared to have been active for some time, officials said.
Firefighters were able to close the bank vault before they had to leave the building because high winds were fueling the attic fire, threatening the entire structure. Moments later, the roof collapsed, and the building was engulfed in flames.
No injuries were reported.
Copyright © 2012 — The Register-Guard, Eugene, Oregon, USA
Wow, that's crazy! Please update us on what you hear about the lock boxes.
