First Alliance Credit Union is proud to announce the reopening of its Northeast Rochester branch on 37th Street, following extensive rebuilding after severe water damage forced the sudden closure of the facility in October 2023. The credit union celebrated its reopening with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday, March 16, 2026, with members, community partners, and local leaders to mark the occasion.
The original building at 320 Alliance Place NE sustained significant water damage to its foundation that raised structural concerns, leading First Alliance leadership to prioritize the safety of staff and members and temporarily close the branch.
During the demolition phase, the facility served an unexpected but meaningful purpose. The Rochester Fire Department used the structure for live training exercises, providing firefighters with valuable hands-on experience before the building was removed.
First Alliance Credit Union was founded in 1932 by Rochester firefighters and a teacher, and the training exercises conducted during demolition served as a symbolic connection to those origins. The project honored the credit union’s deep roots in the Rochester fire service community. The new building now stands in its place, allowing First Alliance Credit Union to once again serve members in Northeast Rochester.
“This reopening represents resilience and our continued commitment to the Northeast Rochester community,” said Brent Rempe, President & CEO of First Alliance Credit Union. “While the closure was unexpected, the opportunity to rebuild has allowed us to create a refreshed space where we can continue helping our members achieve financial success.”
Today, First Alliance Credit Union serves more than 21,000 members across 14 counties in Southeast Minnesota, providing personal financial guidance, innovative lending solutions, and community-focused banking services.