A successful execution of lending strategies was instrumental inleading Metro Credit Union to more than $1 billion in total assets.

Over the past 18 months, the Chelsea, Mass.-based credit unionsaid it has enjoyed more than 38% growth in loan portfolio balancesacross mortgages, home equity, business, auto, personal and student loans.

Business lending, which was up more than 45% over the sameperiod, was also a key contributor to growth, according to MetroCU. With double-digit, year-over-year growth, this is steadilybecoming a key element of the credit union's lending portfolio, thecredit union said.

“Lending is a key element of our vision of becoming the primaryfinancial institution for anyone looking for a better way to bank.”said Robert Cashman, president/CEO of Metro CU.

He added, “This milestone proves our members place their trustin us, as we do them, and we look forward to meeting their needsfor many years to come.”

The credit union tasked the lending teams with creating alending operation that attracted both consumers and businessesalike, said Thomas Nadeau, senior vice president of lending andchief operating officer for Metro CU.

“By offering competitive rates under reasonable terms andthrough a highly personalized process, we've quickly achieved thegoals and objectives we set into motion,” Nadeau noted.

“We are proud to be part of what enables local businessinvestment as well as home ownership in the communities we serve,”Cashman said.

Metro CU serves more than 160,000 members.