https://bankingjournal.aba.com/2017/06/ ... lead-bank/
The physical space is absolutely meant to be literal advertising for the bank. It says that in the article.During the buildout phase, we took our design cues from small business incubators
But from their words they weren't building just a bank, they built a way they can connect with entrepreneurs.
So this idea that a bank will buy into a bigger project, they had their chance to do that and renovated a building instead. I wouldn't expect they sell to a developer any time soon.
It's likely the building plays as important a piece as the location. The idea of renovating a building in the crossroads is part of the culture of the district. It's about authenticity with their potential customers.
The carrying cost of the lots is probably a lot less than the intangible value the building provides. The intangible value is why historic buildings are so important and worth saving