First National Bank of NWA Breaks Ground on Bentonville Branch

A new bank branch being built near downtown Bentonville won’t look like a typical banking office.

Instead, the First National Bank of NWA office at 402 S.W. A St. will reflect an interest that has become a key focus in the area — the arts.

Officials from FNBNWA gathered with city leaders on Feb. 23 to break ground on the 8,700-SF building, across the street from the Thrive mixed-use development.

The bank acquired a half-acre of land there in July 2014 for $635,000. A vacant residence that was previously on the property has been razed.

Construction is being led by Oelke Construction Co. of Springdale and is expected to last nine months.

“We are grateful to have the opportunity to offer the community a full-service bank location in downtown Bentonville with a unique design and with plans to complement the arts district,” said Sam Sicard, CEO and president of the bank’s holding company, Fort Smith-based First Bank Corp. (FNBNWA is a division of First National Bank of Fort Smith.) “FNBNWA is committed to supporting the Bentonville community and being a true long-term community partner.”

The design of the building was led by Architecture Plus of Fort Smith. It will be mostly glass and illuminated at night, with an art influence in the interior furnishings. Local artist Zeek Taylor has been hired by the bank as an independent art director, responsible for assembling various collections to be displayed and changed out every few weeks. Local art will be featured to mix with works from museums and art schools.

The second floor will include a community room that will accommodate up to 100 people, with an outdoor terrace atop the bank’s two drive-thru lanes.

Last summer, Rob Husong, the bank’s Northwest Arkansas regional president, announced the hiring of Brent Leas as vice president and team leader of the Bentonville branch.

FNBNWA rebranded from First National Bank of Rogers in July 2014. It currently has four branches in Benton County, with two locations in Rogers, one in Lowell and one in Centerton, as well as a Washington County branch in Fayetteville.