Bridgehampton National Bank celebrated its Patchogue opening on July 14 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its newest location at 41 East Main St. The location will also house a new coffeehouse that is set to open by Saturday.
The East End institution is the first community bank to open a branch in Patchogue, which until now has been occupied solely by larger regional and national banks.
Bridgehampton National said it will bring the community banking model of personalized service to residents and small businesses in the village.
"If you look at Patchogue, there are lots of large national banks," said Kevin O'Connor, chief executive of Bridgehampton National. "We value relationships with customers and we will support small businesses here in the community."
The bank, which quietly opened its doors three weeks ago, will also support the local job market. Mimi Bristel, marketing coordinator for Bridgehampton National, said most of the bank's employees live where they work.
"These folks are here to offer smaller-brand, personal service, which you may not get at one of the larger banks," said Artie Bizzoso, who works near the bank at MCS Mortgage Bankers, Inc.
Patchogue Mayor Paul Pontieri said he's happy to have the Long Island-based bank in the village. "It's an honor that they chose us," he added.
Bridgehampton National has already begun to support the businesses of Patchogue by leasing part of its new branch's space to a village resident for his fledgling coffee shop.
William Closson, a 30-year Patchogue resident and forensic toxicologist, is set to open the Roast Coffee and Tea Trading Company adjacent to Bridgehampton National's new branch Sept. 25.
The new shop promises to be the only one of its kind in Patchogue's downtown area, with Wi-Fi and extended hours. Closson said the shop will also roast and sell its own coffee beans on the premises.
Christopher Copobianco, curator of the nearby Patchogue Theatre's Live in the Lobby Series, said he's hoping Closson's shop will fill the village's need for quality coffee.
"Number one we need a good cup of coffee in Patchogue," he said. "And if it comes with a cool place to hang out, even better."
