WESTFIELD BANK – Citing a recent increase in COVID-19 cases in their service area, Westfield Bank has closed the vast majority of its branch lobbies indefinitely, beginning Friday, the bank recently announced on its website.
Westfield Bank’s branch lobbies and departments will now be available by appointment only during regular business hours. Drive-up banking will continue to offer expanded services. Branch lobbies at Tower Square in Springfield, as well as those in Granby, Conn., and West Hartford will still remain open.
To help maintain social distancing, Westfield Bank encourages the use of its ATMs as well as digital banking services whenever possible.
Westfield Bank also continues to implement branch safety requirements and standards based on those set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state officials.
Anyone feeling sick or who has coronavirus-related symptoms or been exposed to somebody who is sick or has recently traveled to a restricted state (per Massachusetts and Connecticut state guidelines) is asked to refrain from entering an ATM vestibule, or branch which still remains open.
Face masks are required at all times but may be briefly lowered if asked to be identified for security purposes. Social distancing of six feet or more is also encouraged. Hand sanitizer is available in all lobbies. High touch areas are cleaned periodically throughout the day, and all branches and ATMs are thoroughly cleaned daily, according to Westfield Bank.
Westfield Bank is not the only bank transitioning to drive-up/ATM/online services throughout the majority of its branches.
Bank of America also recently announced that it has temporarily closed some of its financial centers, and warned of longer wait times at other locations. The financial institution is urging customers to use online banking for account management, loan or bill payments; or to schedule an appointment ahead of time.
Said Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan: “We are focusing our resources on the number one priority – looking after people.”
Country Bank announced this week that it has temporarily closed entire branches in Brimfield and Ware, and is now offering drive-up service only at the rest of its locations in cities and towns such as Ludlow, Wilbraham, Palmer, and Worcester.
Representatives for Westfield Bank were unavailable for comment.
