New $2.5 million branch enhances convenience, expands financial access and reinforces Affinity Plus’s commitment to serving the Albert Lea community
Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union (Affinity Plus) is breaking ground on its new Albert Lea branch, marking the next milestone in its growing presence in southern Minnesota. The new branch, located at 1707 East Main Street, is scheduled to open in the summer of 2026 and will bring expanded, people-focused financial services to the Albert Lea community.
The groundbreaking follows Affinity Plus’s recent merger with City and County Employees Federal Credit Union (CCEFCU) of Albert Lea, which welcomed more than 1,600 local members into the Affinity Plus family. Representing a $2.5 million investment in the region, the credit union has hired several local contractors for the build, reinforcing Affinity Plus’s long-term commitment to supporting the community and building strong local connections.
When complete, the new branch will offer a range of convenience features, including a drive-thru lane and deposit-taking ATM. Members will also enjoy expanded access to Affinity Plus’s full suite of financial products and services, including its member-friendly fee structure highlighted by its complete removal of non-sufficient funds (NSF) fees, new loans such as first mortgage loans, an investment center, student loans and convenient banking services like top-rated digital and mobile banking, as well as instant issue debit and credit cards.
“We’re thrilled to break ground on our new Albert Lea branch to bring our people-focused banking services to the community,” said Manuela Keeling, Vice President of Branches at Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union. “Since welcoming City and County Employees Federal Credit Union members earlier this year, we’ve been focused on expanding their access to the products, tools and personalized services we offer. This new branch reflects our commitment to the people of Albert Lea – not only through enhanced financial access, but through local investment and community partnership.”
The Albert Lea branch adds to Affinity Plus’s expanding statewide footprint, now totaling 35 branches. The credit union continues to see strong membership growth year over year, with Minnesotans seeing the benefits from its member-focused approach and innovative solutions, such as eliminating non-sufficient fund fees and reforming courtesy payment charges, which have saved members millions of dollars.