This old bank won't act like it

The west side of Connection Bank in downtown Fort Madison is getting new insulation and framing around the windows as part of a comprehensive renovation taking place this summer.

Photo by Chuck Vandenberg/PCC

Work on the south side of Connection Bank in Fort Madison includes new drive-up lanes attached to the main building and will incorporate new design elements that have been part of new constructio and renovations at other locations around southeast Iowa.. Work is expected to be completed on the main building by October.

Photo by Chuck Vandenberg/PCC

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KEEP GROWING

The Baier and Hoyer families have made it very clear they want to keep growing and continue making investments in our communities which we’re excited about.”

Matt Morris, President/CEO Connection Bank

FORT MADISON - With roots all the way back to 1854, Connection Bank’s foundation was laid as the first banking establishment in the state of Iowa. Through many iterations and name changes, Connection Bank was introduced in September of 2016, a happy union of Fort Madison Bank & Trust and Keokuk Savings Bank. At the time, owners, Jim Baier and Doyle Hoyer, had many entrepreneurial endeavors and a strong commitment to community investment, development and well-being.
Matt Morris, President and CEO of Connection Bank says, “We’ve got over 170 years of history, but just because we’re an old bank, doesn’t mean we’re going to act like one.”  The spirit of community, evolution and innovation are weaved into the bank’s culture and core values and are evident in the renovation of their downtown location.
“This is something we’ve wanted to do for a long time,” says Morris. “We’ve built new branches in Burlington and Keokuk which are reflections of the Connection Bank brand, and I’m so happy to finally be able to do the same at our corporate office.” The renovation plans include a reimagined exterior, which is a combination of metal panels, stonework and new paint which will bring a modern look and feel to the downtown area. On the inside, a brand-new lobby has been designed with additional space being added for drive-up staff and the relocation of the drive-up lanes to the main building. 
Functionally, the renovation will allow greater efficiencies for customers and staff, “but it was more about being a good corporate citizen of Fort Madison,” Morris said. Jim and Doyle’s legacy has been passed down to their children, along with ownership of the bank. “The Baier and Hoyer families have made it very clear they want to keep growing and continue making investments in our communities which we’re excited about,” Morris added. “The downtown renovation, in addition to improvements we’ve made at our 48th Street location this year are two great examples of this commitment.”
Morris said he hopes renovations are completed by the end of September. After the primary building is finished, additional concrete and construction work is needed at what is currently the drive-up. This building will remain open as a Community Room, as it frequently serves as an event and meeting place for area groups and organizations.