CHATSWORTH - Vermillion Valley Bank wants to offer a permanent convenience for customers in Chatsworth.

About two years ago, the Piper City-based bank opened in a temporary modular unit at 101 S. 4th St. in Chatsworth. Construction work recently began on a new branch building four blocks south at 509 4th St., at the corner of 4th Street and U.S. 24, said President Dennis Smith.

"We've decided now to go ahead and build a permanent facility," Smith said.

Vermillion Valley Bank wanted to locate in Chatsworth a couple of years ago as a convenience to its existing customers who lived there, Smith said. The location closer to home saved Chatsworth residents on gasoline costs and eliminated the six-mile trip to the Piper City main office, he said.

Icy weather halted construction work this week, but Smith still hopes to get the building enclosed by Jan. 1, have workers inside during the winter and open May 1.

The 3,100-square foot facility will be a full-service bank with loans, deposits, trusts and safe deposit boxes, Smith said. The bank will have three drive-up lanes, including one with a drive-through ATM, he said.

Smith declined to release the cost of the construction project.

Vermillion Valley Bank also has branches in Cullom, Roberts and Kempton.