The U.S. Bank branch at Crosby Place, 719 S. Kansas Ave., in downtown Topeka has shuttered.

The bank branch closed its doors permanently Feb. 27.

Caitlin Hurley, communications manager at U.S. Bank, said clients received notification of the closure in November.

"We understand that the closure of any branch is a disruption for our clients and our employees," said Hurley, "and we are working to make the transition as smooth as possible for all involved."

A notice on the doors of the former branch encourages its customers to "choose the most convenient way to bank for you," whether it be through mobile and online banking or finding the nearest branch in the capital city.

Where are the other U.S. Bank branches in Topeka?

Brick-and-mortar bank branches are closing rapidly nationwide

Self-Financial predicts that if bank branches continue to close at the current rate, there could be no physical bank branches open in the U.S. by 2041.

Its data comes from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., which found that between 2012 and 2022 the number of commercial bank branches in the U.S. decreased from 82,461 in 2012 to 69,590 in 2022 — a decrease of 16%.

The decline prediction is caused by multiple factors that include a shift toward online and mobile banking, increased automation in financial services and efforts by banks to cut costs and streamline operations. The pandemic triggered the trend, with customers preferring the convenience of digital banking over visiting branches.

"While online banking continues to rise in popularity, it seems that there are still some concerns with using it as a main banking provider though," Self-Financial said.

Lack of free ATMs and security concerns were main concerns for customers when it comes to using online banking.

Hurley said client’s banking preferences and behaviors are changing, including a rapid migration toward digital and mobile banking platforms, and a desire for greater simplicity.

"As we evolve along with our clients, we are reevaluating our physical footprint, and in some instances, consolidating branch locations in select markets," Hurley said. "Although we are closing some branches, we continue to open and enhance others, as well as rapidly enhancing our digital capabilities."