From Granite to Landmark: Building Members First Credit Union’s New Headquarters in Manchester, NH
When Members First Credit Union set out to build its new headquarters in Manchester’s historic North End, the vision was clear: create a modern, high-performing facility that still felt rooted in the character of the surrounding neighborhood.
Turning that vision into reality, however, required navigating one of the most complex construction environments imaginable—solid granite, a dense urban setting, and a project timeline unfolding at the height of a global pandemic.
A Challenging Site with No Room for Error
The project site at 7 Salmon Street presented an immediate and significant obstacle: the entire footprint consisted of solid granite ledge. To construct a full basement, Sullivan Construction had to execute carefully coordinated blasting operations in close proximity to residential properties.
This wasn’t just a technical challenge—it was a community one.
Over the course of six weeks, the team worked closely with abutters, conducting pre-blast surveys and maintaining clear communication to ensure safety and minimize disruption.
At the same time, the project faced additional pressures:
Tight timelines to achieve a weather-tight building before winter
Labor and material shortages due to COVID-19
Unpredictable supply chain disruptions
Extreme weather conditions, including high winds and freezing temperatures
Building Through Uncertainty
Construction began in the summer of 2020, right at the peak of the pandemic. As workforce availability fluctuated, Sullivan Construction adapted in real time.
Instead of allowing delays to derail progress, the team implemented:
Flexible scheduling and resequencing of work
Split shifts to reduce jobsite density
Additional weekend work to maintain momentum
These strategies allowed the project to continue moving forward safely and efficiently, even under constantly changing conditions.
Creative Problem-Solving on the Jobsite
As winter approached, another major hurdle emerged: the building could not be fully enclosed before temperatures dropped.
Rather than pause construction, the team developed innovative solutions to maintain progress:
Tenting the third floor to allow slab pours in below-freezing conditions
Switching materials (from drywall to DensGlass) to withstand exposure to the elements
Preparing contingency structural plans for nearby infrastructure, including sidewalks and traffic signals
These proactive decisions ensured that work could continue without compromising safety or quality.
A Thoughtful Design That Honors Its Surroundings
The completed 17,597-square-foot, three-story headquarters blends modern functionality with classic New England architecture.
Featuring:
Red brick masonry
Precast concrete details
Ample natural light through expansive glazing
Distinctive gable designs
…the building reflects the historic character of Manchester’s North End while delivering a contemporary, high-performance workspace.
Delivering Results That Matter
Despite the challenges, the project was completed in just 12 months—on schedule and within budget.
Even more importantly, it delivered measurable outcomes:
Zero lost-time accidents, demonstrating a strong commitment to jobsite safety
A seamless fit within the surrounding neighborhood, enhancing the local streetscape
A long-term home for Members First Credit Union, designed to support future growth
Repeat business from the client, reinforcing trust and partnership
What was once two overgrown, underutilized lots is now a standout structure that captures attention as you cross the Amoskeag Bridge—an anchor for both the organization and the community.
Built Around You
At its core, this project is a reflection of Sullivan Construction’s approach: solving complex problems with proactive planning, clear communication, and adaptability, no matter the circumstances.
From blasting through granite to building through a pandemic, the Members First Credit Union headquarters stands as a testament to what’s possible when expertise meets resilience.