Community First Launches Renovation of the Former Edgewood Bakery

Murray Hill landmark will become the credit union’s most unique branch

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., January 26, 2026 - Community First Credit Union announces it is starting construction at its Murray Hill Branch, the renovation and reconfiguration of the former Edgewood Bakery. Community First, one of Florida’s largest credit unions, held a renovation launch event on Monday with its team, former bakery owners Gary and Sandy Polletta (1992- 2014), District City Councilman Jimmy Peluso, local civic and business leaders and the Murray Hill Preservation Association.

“As Community First embarks on transforming the former Edgewood Bakery into a modern, state-of-the-art credit union branch, we’re excited to honor the legacy this beloved Murray Hill bakery has in the community,” said Sam Inman, president and CEO of Community First Credit Union. “Our thoughtful design will make this one of our most distinctive branches yet, and we’re confident it will once again become a neighborhood hub – just as the bakery was – while fulfilling our purpose of strengthening our communities one member at a time.”

The innovative branch design will include a front lawn/social area that will have a food feature, a community room and unique architecture not normally seen at other Community First branches. Community First anticipates the branch to be complete by the end of 2026.

The floorplan is configured inside the existing building structure on one floor and includes a refreshed and redesigned parking lot, in addition to a drive-thru and full exterior updates. As in all its branches, its interior will feature a mural depicting historical photos of the neighborhood.

“The Edgewood Bakery site is a cornerstone of the revitalization of the Murray Hill retail corridor,” said Greg Beere, president of the Murray Hill Preservation Association. “Our team has been actively engaged with Community First Credit Union as the voice of our neighbors, and we’re delighted to see the building transformed into a unique asset for this community.”

Community First, founded and based in Jacksonville, intends to honor the legacy of the Edgewood Bakery in several ways, while providing a modern and community-centered credit union experience. Community First purchased the Murray Hill location at Edgewood Avenue and Post Street in 2024. The bakery closed in 2016, and the building has been vacant since. TTV Architects designed the branch, Auld & White Constructors is the building contractor, NAI Hallmark is the development partner and Kimley Horn is performing civil engineering for the branch.

Community First Credit Union of Florida is a state-chartered credit union based in Jacksonville serving anyone who lives or works on the First Coast. Community First is one of the largest credit unions in Florida with $3 billion in assets and serving 188,000 members. Community First has 24 locations and more than 450 employees. A not-for-profit, Community First is a full-service financial institution offering banking, loans, mortgages and investments for consumers and businesses across the First Coast. For more, visit www.communityfirstfl.org.