Highland Park residents and merchants may now have the world’s second-largest banking company in their midst, but the commitment to this community by Branch Manager Kathy Schlesinger and her team at Bank of America’s branch on Woodbridge Avenue is as great as ever.

Says Schlesinger: “Expect us to continue to be involved in a big way in Highland Park.”

Bank of America has committed to lend and invest $100 billion in former Fleet markets as part of its community investment program. The program targets delivery of capital and credit to low- and moderate-income individuals, families and communities.

Bank of America completed its merger with FleetBoston Financial Corporation last April, but signs proclaiming the new name didn’t go up in Central New Jersey till October. The financial-services giant now serves more than 35 million households and businesses across the United States.

"This transaction closes an era but begins a new one," Charles K. Gifford, chairman of Bank of America, said at the time. "It allows the strength and heritage of the Fleet franchise to become part of a dynamic national financial services company while continuing its historic commitment to the northeast region. It will be increasingly clear that this is a win-win for employees, customers, communities and shareholders."

Bank of America customers have access to 16,500 ATMs across the country to make fee-free cash withdrawals.

The merger creates the fourth most profitable company in the world, based on 2003 pro-forma results.

Says Schlesinger, a Highland Park resident and second vice-president of the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce: “I’m enthusiastic about being part of an organization that is a leader on the world stage but also knows what it means to be part of the fabric of a local neighborhood.”

Apart from offering a large menu of banking services, Schlesinger’s branch is also a dispensary for Highland Park Chamber Gift Certificates. The certificates are honored by Chamber member establishments—including Bank of America itself—throughout Highland Park. 

The Highland Park branch of Bank of America is located at 35 Woodbridge Ave. and has 15 employees. The bank’s lobby is open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Thursdays, when the bank welcomes customers till 7. Drive-up hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Thursdays till 7.  The lobby and drive-up window are both open on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The branch also has a 24-hour automated teller machine.

Info: 732-985-4615