Union State Bank has added a retro-style neon sign and clock ? like the one put up in Winfield in late spring ? to its main bank on Summit in Arkansas City.
The bank recently put the clock and sign in place along with another sign on the 5th Ave. side of the building. Bank officials said the clock was meant to enhance downtown aesthetics by blending a nostalgic look to state-of-the-art technology.
Work began in July on the first full-scale restoration of the main bank’s exterior since 1917. The build at 127 S. Summit is headquarters for Union State, which has locations in Winfield, Ark City and Udall.
The exterior paint job was designed to take Union State Bank back to its original brick and limestone d?cor. The building has also traditionally had an awning on the Summit Street side, which is scheduled to arrive later this week.
Restoration and sign work, which began in July, have been done with the help of local contractors. Rob Carroll Sandblasting and Painting and Sign Solutions worked jointly with Wichita’s Miracle Signs on the project. Duncan Construction and Ark City Glass handled the windows and entrance revamp.
"Our building needed some upgrades, but we wanted to make sure it maintained a historical significance," USB President John Sturd said. "We’re proud of our downtown, and proud that our building now adds to the historic beauty of Ark City."
Plans to complete the transformation coincide with Union State Bank celebrating its 100th birthday the week of Arkalalah. The bank, established in 1908, is currently refurbishing the Wilson Park rotunda to commemorate the centennial and will have a free concert there October 21.
An open house is also scheduled for Friday, October 24 at the main bank to highlight the renovations.
For more information call 442-5200 or visit any Union State Bank location.
