Notice: 

THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
Division of Banks

BRIGHTBRIDGE CREDIT UNION (BRIGHTBRIDGE), Lawrence, Massachusetts has petitioned the Commissioner of Banks for permission to (1) merge with ARRHA CREDIT UNION (ARRHA), Springfield, Massachusetts; and (2) as part of this merger transaction, amend the bylaws of BRIGHTBRIDGE to include ARRHA’s current membership eligibility. Under the terms of the merger, ARRHA will merge with and into BRIGHTBRIDGE under the charter, bylaws, and name of BRIGHTBRIDGE. The main office of BRIGHTBRIDGE would remain the main office of the continuing credit union and all banking offices of ARRHA would be retained as branch offices. Any objections or comments relative to this proposal must be communicated in writing to the Commissioner of Banks no later than August 29, 2025 and may be submitted via electronic mail to dob.comments@mass.gov or mailed to One Federal Street, Suite 710, Boston, Massachusetts 02110. A public hearing may be held if the response is considered significant or circumstances warrant such a hearing, as determined by the Commissioner. The petitioner's application and all communications relative to this application are available from the Division by request at dob.rao@mass.gov.

MARY L. GALLAGHER
Commissioner of Banks

Notice of Merger (PDF)

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BrightBridge Credit Union and Arrha Credit Union Announce Intent to Merge

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.

 

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Merger FAQs: BrightBridge Credit Union & Arrha Credit Union