Exciting construction work is afoot on Tynes Street, where the new home of Metropolitan Federal Credit Union is only a few months from being complete.

“The members are very excited,” said Ronald Hart, manager of the credit union. “We’ve worked hard for the last three years to make it a reality.”

The credit union has existed for about 68 years. The credit union operated in the church until 1984, when it moved into a house behind the church on County Street. The house was later expanded but still is only about 1,000 square feet.

The new building, about a block away at 133 Tynes St., will be about 2,500 square feet.

“It’s going to more than double in size,” Hart said.

The new building will include a drive-through and ATM.

“It’s going to be a lot more convenient for our membership and a lot more space,” Hart said.

The credit union has about 1,800 members. The members of eight local churches and their relatives are eligible to be members of the credit union. Hart said the goal is to have about 3,000 members.

The eight churches are Metropolitan Baptist Church, St. Mark Episcopal Church, Antioch United Church of Christ, New Mt. Joy Food for Living Ministries, New First Baptist Church Hosier Road, United Full Gospel Revival Center, Tabernacle Baptist Outreach Center and True Gospel Ministries.

Hart said the new building will likely be ready to move into in August or September.

“The weather has slowed us down, but we are moving as fast as we can,” he said.

Hart said he is glad to see improvements coming to the east side of downtown.

“Some good things are happening on this side of town,” he said.

“We’re grateful for all that God has done for us,” said the Rev. Dr. Lemuel L. Greene, chaplain of the board of directors.

The construction project is being completed by PW Campbell.