Legends Bank, based in Linn, has applied to build a second branch at Rolla at 1010 Forum Drive near the Forum Shopping Center.

“We consider this an ideal location,” said CEO John A. Klebba. “The shopping center is full, and there is a lot of traffic flow.”

Previously home to a convenience store, the location is now a vacant lot, with Legends Bank planning to construct a new facility. “This will be a full-service location, with deposit and lending services available,” said Klebba.

Legends opened its first branch in Rolla 11 years ago in the southern part of Rolla at the junction of Hwys. 63 and 72. The new facility will be in the northeast part of the city.

“Rolla is doing well,” said Klebba. “We’re excited to get going.”

While this has been in the works for a while, Klebba said it was best to wait until the extension in Linn was substantially complete, and that time has come, with only the parking lot and driveway behind the bank to be finished.

Klebba anticipates application approval in 30-60 days, with construction to begin as soon as possible after that. “We are in the final process of obtaining permits from the city of Rolla, and we have a general contractor lined up, so we’re looking at a groundbreaking this summer,” he noted.

Notice of the application appears in this week’s U.D. and will also be published in Phelps County.

Any person wishing to comment on this application may file his or her comments in writing with the Regional Director of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation at its regional office located at 1100 Walnut Street, Suite 2100, Kansas City, MO 64106, no later than May 27, 2022.