DUBLIN, Ohio – Ohio Credit Union System's ZENITH06 attendees were treated to a new take on the mobile branch concept. During the conference, Fort Wayne, Indiana-based design/build firm Romary Associates unveiled a state-of-the-art, amenity-laden, full-service 46-foot mobile branch prototype called "Bankroll." Built on a semi-truck chassis, the rolling branch includes a spacious lobby with two teller windows and a check-writing station, walk-up ATM, safe and a full-service, bullet-resistant drive-up window.

The 46-foot vehicle is outfitted with a high-tech security system with 16 interior and bullet-resistant exterior cameras, including one that raises seven feet in the air, providing 360 degree viewing, and zooms in to 100 yards. The vehicle also features card-swipe access and micro-switch trigger alarms throughout the branch. Bankroll's communication system includes six phone lines with land, cellular and satellite networks, high-speed computer access and encrypted wireless capabilities.

According to Romary Associates President Ed Romary, the mobile branch has short-term, long-term, and contingency applications for credit unions. It can be used short-term to test market new areas, and as a temporary facility while a brick-and-mortar location is being built. As a long-term investment, Bankroll can be used to travel to and service members at Select Employee Groups and underserved areas. In addition, it can be an important and critical part of a credit union's disaster recovery plan said Romary.