Town of Enfield Leases Former Bank Building As Drive-Thru Express

ENFIELD, CT — A former bank building located two doors north of Town Hall has been leased by the town as a "drive-thru express" for residents to safely conduct business, including paying taxes, acquiring dog licenses and requesting permits.

Town Manager Chris Bromson signed a lease this week to occupy the former Santander Bank building at 800 Enfield St., which has been vacant since the bank branch closed in May 2019. A sign proclaiming "Enfield Express Coming Soon" has been placed over the entryway. Opening date is slated for Monday, June 29; town officials will host Gov. Ned Lamont at a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, June 26 at 10 a.m.

To register for free Enfield news alerts and more, click here.

The Enfield Express will also serve as a point of distribution for personal protective equipment (PPE) for businesses which have registered with the Connecticut Business & Industry Association (CBIA) and the state. Registered businesses will be advised of pickup dates and times.

The 4,312 square foot building was constructed in 1972, and has been home to a variety of financial institutions over the years, including Society For Savings.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, Town Hall was closed to the public in mid-March. On May 20, it re-opened on an appointment-only basis.

At a virtual meeting with the town council on May 20, Bromson outlined both short- and long-term plans for the property. The appeal in the short term is the former bank's drive-up window, which would be a key element in promoting safe transactions. All 11 councilors voted in favor of granting Bromson authorization to enter into an agreement with the property owners.

In the long run, town officials anticipate purchasing the property at the end of the lease term as a major component in developing a plan for Higgins Park, in conjunction with indoor facilities at the nearby former St. Adalbert School on Alden Ave. Plans for the park include a walking trail, dog park, shell theater and other amenities. 800 Enfield St. is seen as a possible gateway into the park.