July 16, 2025
Lawrence, Mass., & Springfield, Mass. – Wednesday, July 16 – BrightBridge Credit Union (BrightBridge) and Arrha Credit Union are pleased to announce their intent to merge, combining two strong, member-focused institutions to enhance the value delivered to their members and communities. BrightBridge will be the continuing credit union.
This strategic partnership is rooted in a shared mission to provide exceptional service, competitive financial products and a strong community presence. By joining together, BrightBridge will expand its field of membership to serve the Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties in Massachusetts, and Hartford and Tolland counties in Connecticut.
If approved by members of both credit unions and regulators, the combined institutions will have 23 retail branches and provide shared branching across the U.S. Together, these institutions will have combined assets of nearly $2.4 billion and approximately 125,000 members.
“We’re so excited about this opportunity to unite with another credit union that shares our values and commitment to putting members first,” said BrightBridge President & CEO John J. Howard. “Arrha Credit Union has a long-standing reputation for supporting its members with integrity, care and genuine down-to-earth service. Our partnership allows us to build upon that legacy while investing in future growth and innovation.” “
We believe this partnership is exceptionally beneficial to our members, our team members and to our community,” said Michael Ostrowski, President & CEO of Arrha Credit Union. “Together, we’ll be stronger and better equipped to serve our members’ evolving financial needs. We look forward to working with the BrightBridge team to ensure a smooth transition for all.”
Throughout the merger process, both organizations have committed to transparency and open communication, with members receiving regular updates and information regarding the proposed merger.
For more information and updates, please bookmark this page.
Arrha Credit Union a state-chartered community credit union with more than $160 million in assets and headquartered in Springfield, Massachusetts. Arrha currently serves more than 9,000 members in the Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties in Massachusetts and the Hartford and Tolland counties in Connecticut, and operates retail branches located in Springfield, West Springfield and Enfield, Conn. Arrha Credit Union is a full-service credit union offering in-branch member service and online and digital banking solutions to meet member needs.
Arrha Credit Union will merge into BrightBridge Credit Union pending member and regulatory approval.
There will be no changes to your everyday banking experience:
You do not need to take any action!
You’ll see a few exciting enhancements including:
BrightBridge will remain a member-owned, Massachusetts state-chartered credit union focused on the needs of our members and the communities we serve.
Members of both credit unions will have the opportunity to vote later this year. BrightBridge will communicate the details with all members when they are available.
If the vote and regulatory approvals are successful, the merger will become official in early 2026.
We’ll continue to share updates as they become available. Please bookmark this page for the latest news and answers to common questions.