- Gas Fireplace Maintenance
- Chimney Cap Installation
- Fire Hazards with Dryer Vent Cleaning
Chimney Sweep Near Me Charleston, SC
There's something alluring about chimneys - whether they're old or new, they have an inherent charm that adds architectural flair to your home. Perhaps more importantly, fireplaces keep you and your family warm and cozy during cold South Carolina winters. Who doesn't love gathering in front of the fire with friends to enjoy a fun board game or a few rounds of drinks?
Anyone who owns a chimney should most certainly enjoy it. But you should know that your chimney isn't there to simply make your house look special - its primary role is to keep you and your family safe. In fact, when you're relaxing in front of a cozy fire with your favorite book, your chimney is hard at work making sure the fire's harmful fumes are directed up and away from you and your home.
Unfortunately, when you fail to clean your fireplace and the flue lining it, things can heat up in a matter of moments - and not in a good way. The truth is that unclean fireplaces can lead to chimney fires, which are known for causing horrible property damage and even harm to people. Chimney fires can be explosive, with flames shooting from the top of your chimney and dense smoke billowing out into the street. It's a horrible situation to endure. Fortunately, homeowners in South Carolina can rely on a chimney sweep in Charleston, SC, to keep their chimneys clean and in great working condition. That's where Flowertown Gas Fireplace and Chimney Service comes into play - to help you enjoy your home's fireplace without worrying about worst-case scenarios.
Stay Safe, Warm, and Cozy withFlowertown Gas Fireplace and Chimney Service
As a local, family-owned chimney sweep company in South Carolina, our team is dedicated to keeping gas fireplaces, wood burning fireplaces, and dryer vents clean and in great working condition for homeowners. By letting our family serve your family, you can rest easy knowing your fireplace and chimney are ready and waiting for you to enjoy this winter, whether you have a gas fireplace with logs or a more traditional wood burning alternative.
Our mission is to serve our customers with superior chimney and gas fireplace service by providing years of knowledge, time-tested solutions, and customer education to build trust and customer loyalty. We offer a range of chimney sweep services in Charleston, SC, including the following:
- Gas Fireplace Service, Repairs, & Installation
- Gas Log Service, Repair, & Installation
- Chimney Sweep Service & Cleaning
- Wood Fireplace Service & Repairs
- Exterior Chimney Cap Sales & Installation
- Chimney Inspections
Unlike some chimney sweep companies in South Carolina, our team has been certified to ensure we know how to install, maintain, and repair all types of fireplace appliances. In fact, over our more than 12 years of experience in the fireplace and hearth industry, we've obtained a few credentials along the way, including:
CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep
Homeowners looking for reliable and knowledgeable chimney and venting professionals have trusted the Chimney Safety Institute of America's (CSIA) endorsements for over three decades. By selecting a technician who is certified by CSIA, you can rest assured that they possess the necessary expertise, qualifications, and experience to provide you with top-notch chimney sweep service in South Carolina.
NFI Certified Gas Hearth and Wood Burning Hearth Professional
When it comes to planning and installing fireplaces, stoves, and venting systems, skill and technical knowledge are absolutely crucial. There are countless decisions that must be made, including determining the appropriate floor protection, appliance sizing and placement, and venting system compatibility and height.
For the most reliable and proper installation, it's highly recommended that you seek the guidance of a specialist. The National Fireplace Institute is a trusted, independent, non-profit certification agency that has established the highest standards for certification in the hearth industry. Those who pass the rigorous examination covering the fundamentals of proper installation are awarded NFI Specialist Certification, ensuring you can trust their expertise.
Now that you know a little bit about our company and our mission, it's time to learn more about the fireplace and hearth services we offer to homeowners in South Carolina.
Keeping Your Home Safe with Gas Fireplace Maintenance in Charleston, SC
Gas fireplaces are one of the most common features of homes in South Carolina and bring a special ambiance to any room. As with any appliance in your home, however, it's important to keep your gas fireplace maintained throughout the year.
It is crucial to have your gas hearth appliances serviced annually. At Flowertown Gas Fireplace and Chimney Service, our team of experts will thoroughly clean, service, and inspect your gas hearth appliance, as well as perform any necessary repairs. If you notice black soot on your logs or they are not burning cleanly, it is imperative to shut down the appliance to schedule gas fireplace maintenance or repair ASAP.
It's important to note that your gas logs should only be serviced and repaired by a certified gas specialist from the NFI or National Fireplace Institute. There's nothing wrong with hiring a friend, but if they don't know what they're doing, your safety may be at risk.
Why Should You Have Your Gas Fireplace Serviced
At Flowertown Gas Fireplace and Chimney Service, one of the most common questions we get is whether or not a customer really needs to have their fireplace serviced. The two biggest reasons for doing so are appliance reliability and safety. The truth is it's very important to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines and have the system inspected and serviced annually by a certified gas specialist.
Failure to do so could result in the production of lethal carbon monoxide gas, which is odorless and requires special equipment to detect. Additionally, gas leaks and improper venting can pose serious hazards, which is why inspection of the venting system, chimney, and fireplace is imperative. With proper maintenance and regular checks, you can enjoy the warmth of your gas hearth system with confidence and peace of mind.
If you haven't kept up with gas fireplace maintenance and believe something is wrong with your hearth or chimney, consider gas fireplace repair in Charleston, SC.
What About Un-Vented Gas Fireplaces?
Heating systems that don't require vents are like regular home heating systems. But they need to be working properly and checked often. It's a good idea to open a window if you're using a vent-free heater. There are rules about when you can use them. It's a good idea to have an expert check your heater's location. Sometimes, people don't know how to use their fireplace or heater correctly - and that's OK. At Flowertown Gas Fireplace and Chimney, we're happy to answer questions and give you tips so you can safely enjoy your gas fireplace.
Common Signs You Need Gas Fireplace Repair
Whether you have a vented or un-vented gas fireplace, it's important to know when you need maintenance or repairs. Keep these signs in mind, especially as you approach fireplace season.
Burning Smells
If you detect any unusual odors emanating from your gas fireplace, it is important to take action. While some odors may not be a cause for concern, the smell of gas or burning wires should be taken seriously. To ensure your safety, turn off the fireplace and immediately open windows to let in fresh air. Be sure to also call a certified chimney sweeping company like Flowertown to repair and resolve any further issues. In the event of a suspected gas leak, evacuate your home immediately and dial 911 for assistance.
Your Gas Fireplace Turns On and Off
If your custom gas fireplace is turning on and then quickly turning off, this is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. There can be multiple reasons for this malfunction, so it's best to contact a trustworthy chimney sweep in South Carolina who specializes in gas fireplaces. Turn off the unit and wait for the technician to arrive to prevent any further damage.
Buildup of Soot
It's normal to wipe off soot from various areas of your fireplace while you're cleaning. However, if you notice excessive amounts of soot, you're dealing with an underlying problem that needs professional attention.
Pilot Light Malfunctions
If your gas fireplace's pilot light is not working properly, it could indicate a potential issue with the wiring, gas valves, or thermostat. Keep an eye out for any inconsistencies in its performance.
Reliable Wood Fireplace Maintenance in Charleston, SC
While gas fireplaces are more common and often easier to operate, wood fireplaces have their own unique ambiance and allure. If you're like us, nothing sounds better than curling up in front of a crackling fire on a cold winter's night with some hot cocoa and a good book. Unfortunately, when you fail to maintain your wood fireplace and are reluctant to have it repaired, you're putting your safety on the line.
That's why we offer top-notch chimney cleaning services at Flowertown Gas Fireplace & Chimney Service. Our certified hearth professionals will thoroughly clean your chimney, removing any creosote buildup and inspecting all vital components to ensure everything is in proper working order. Don't take any chances when it comes to the safety of your home - trust us to keep your chimney in tip-top shape.
Why Should You Have Your Wood Fireplace Inspected by a Chimney Sweep?
There are several compelling reasons why you should have your system inspected by our team. As we mentioned earlier, your chimney is likely to accumulate creosote deposits, which can pose a serious fire hazard. However, with our chimney and fireplace sweeping services, you can significantly reduce this risk. Plus, there may be hidden defects in your system, such as within the flue or smoke chamber, which are difficult to detect without professional inspection.
Suppose you are a new homeowner or have never had your system inspected by a certified chimney sweeper in South Carolina. In that case, it's time to call Flowertown Gas Fireplace & Chimney Service. Our experts can provide the necessary maintenance and recommendations to ensure your system is safe and functional. Whether you need an inspection, maintenance, or wood fireplace repair, our team is ready and waiting to help.
Why Should You Have Your Wood Fireplace Inspected by a Chimney Sweep?
There are several compelling reasons why you should have your system inspected by our team. As we mentioned earlier, your chimney is likely to accumulate creosote deposits, which can pose a serious fire hazard. However, with our chimney and fireplace sweeping services, you can significantly reduce this risk. Plus, there may be hidden defects in your system, such as within the flue or smoke chamber, which are difficult to detect without professional inspection.
Suppose you are a new homeowner or have never had your system inspected by a certified chimney sweeper in South Carolina. In that case, it's time to call Flowertown Gas Fireplace & Chimney Service. Our experts can provide the necessary maintenance and recommendations to ensure your system is safe and functional. Whether you need an inspection, maintenance, or wood fireplace repair, our team is ready and waiting to help.
Essential Wood Burning Fireplace Safety Tips
Having a wood fireplace is a wonderful addition to any home, but it needs to be maintained and repaired, or else it can be very hazardous to your family. Try following these safety tips when enjoying your wood stove or fireplace.
Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby
To increase the likelihood of effectively controlling a fire and preventing it from spreading, it is important to have a fire extinguisher nearby. This can significantly reduce the response time in the event of a fire, as every second counts.
Look for Chimney Cracks
Try to regularly inspect your chimney for any cracks, obstructions, or signs of damage. Cracks can be particularly dangerous, as they can allow heat, smoke, and harmful gases to escape into your home. Cracks can also serve as an entry point for water, which can be particularly harmful.
Talk to Your Family
To ensure safety around your wood burning fireplace, it's essential to educate your family, especially kids, about the potential hazards of fire and the importance of responsible behavior. By teaching them wood fireplace safety measures, you'll create a secure environment for everyone in your house.
Have Your Chimney Inspected by a Seasoned Chimney Sweep in South Carolina
Regular chimney inspections and cleanings prioritize safety and maintenance while providing peace of mind and reducing the risk of chimney fires. Plus, by having your wood fireplace inspected, you'll have peace of mind knowing it works when weather starts to freeze.
Protect Your Property with Chimney Cap Installation in Charleston, SC
If you've ever looked at a house and noted how great the top of their chimney looked, it's probably because they had an attractive chimney cap. Chimney caps and chase pans play a crucial role in both the functionality of a chimney system and the aesthetic appeal of a home's exterior. A well-designed chimney cap safeguards the chimney from animal intrusion, minimizes wind-induced downdraft, and is an essential component in preventing water entry, which can cause significant damage to chimneys.
If you're looking to add or replace your current chimney cap, you're in the right place. Our collection of custom chimney caps comes in a variety of styles and colors to match or supplement your home's beauty. Of course, as professional chimney sweepers in South Carolina, we also offer chimney cap repair and water prevention options where necessary.
How Do You Know When a Chimney Cap Needs Maintenance?
Your home's chimney cap is likely the highest point of your home, making it an easy feature to forget about when it comes to yearly maintenance or repair. That's unfortunate, because even small damage to your chimney and its cap can allow debris and water to enter. Do yourself a favor and examine your chimney cap regularly for the following red flags:
- Visible Cracks
- Loose Bricks
- Tiles Falling from Chimney
- Cracked Mortar Joints
- Rust in Fireplace
- More
If you notice any of the following signs, you should call Flowertown Gas Fireplace & Chimney Service for expert chimney cap repair.
Avoid Hidden Fire Hazards with Dryer Vent Cleaning in Charleston, SC
Have you noticed that it's been taking longer to dry your clothes after washing them? If so, your dryer vent might need to be cleaned - and we're not just talking about the screen you pull out to remove lint. But why?
Regular cleaning of your dryer vents is a must for many reasons, but primarily to prevent lint buildup that can lead to house fires and extend your appliance's lifespan. Dryer vent cleaning is especially important if you tend to leave home while your dryer is in use, as a fire could ignite in your absence. Neglecting proper dryer vent cleaning not only wastes energy but also causes longer drying times and increases the likelihood of machine malfunctions.
Unsure whether you need dryer vent cleaning from Flowertown Gas Fireplace & Chimney Service? Call our office today for an inspection - it's always better to be safe than sorry. You can also keep an eye out for signs like:
- Burning Smells
- Extra-Long Dry Times
- Your Clothes are Unusually Hot
- Your Lint Flap Won't Open
- Your Laundry Room is Hotter Than Usual
If you notice one or more of the red flags above, you should act fast. Flowertown chimney sweeps are fully equipped to provide a comprehensive dryer vent cleaning service for all brands of dryers, including gas, electric, and high-efficiency machines.
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Latest News Near Me Charleston, SC
Tiny Charleston bakery gets big nod on national TV for its ‘cult-favorite’ dessert
Teri Errico Griffishttps://www.postandcourier.com/food/weltons-bakery-honey-pie-rainmaker-episode-charleston/article_f95315b3-14d7-4aaf-9d89-91f3d350f778.html
CHARLESTON — The owners of Welton's Tiny Bakeshop were caught completely off guard when they saw a main character in USA Network's "The Rainmaker" series eating one of their mouthwatering pies.In fact, character Deck Shifflet made sure to emphasize just how delicious the bakery’s famous pie is by savoring it even after it fell beneath the driver’s seat of his beat-up car."When was the last time you actually cleaned your car?" actor Milo Callaghan, as lead role Rudy Baylor, asked.&quo...
CHARLESTON — The owners of Welton's Tiny Bakeshop were caught completely off guard when they saw a main character in USA Network's "The Rainmaker" series eating one of their mouthwatering pies.
In fact, character Deck Shifflet made sure to emphasize just how delicious the bakery’s famous pie is by savoring it even after it fell beneath the driver’s seat of his beat-up car.
"When was the last time you actually cleaned your car?" actor Milo Callaghan, as lead role Rudy Baylor, asked.
"Rudy, this is Welton's pie. If it dropped on a toilet seat, I would eat this," Byrne said, shoveling the slice into his mouth.
Hannah Welton, who opened the 682 King Street bakery with her husband Zachary three years ago, she said she learned of the scene after a number of people shared the clip of season 1, episode 8 on social media.
“My husband was like, ‘Hannah, I think that’s AI,” she told The Post and Courier laughing. “But it seemed to be legitimate.”
For a scripted show to not only name drop, but gush over one “cult-favorite” dessert, Hannah Welton said, “Someone must have tried it and really loved it.”
Though filmed in Ireland due to financial restraints, “The Rainmaker” is set in Charleston and pushes hard on the illusion its actors are in the Lowcountry. Streets and old Irish pubs will have a "Charleston" sticker slapped on a mirror or a Statue of Liberty replica donning sunglasses and a scarf in the corner. Gray rainy moors will be played up with hot pink food trucks serving barbeque.
But one authentic piece the show tries to portray is the food. Deck Shifflet's character — a highly resourceful but somewhat unethical paralegal in quirky suits — is always eating something from Charleston. Often, the paper is from the restaurants themselves.
“Everything you see me eating in the show is from a real restaurant in Charleston,” Byrne told media outlet Decider. “The wrapping that you see like Lewis Barbecue or Porchetta Shop or The Bake Shop. Those are real places.”
The USA Network show, based on the 1995 best-selling John Grisham book, follows underdog lawyer Baylor — along with Byrne and their boss Jocelyn “Bruiser” Stone, played by Lana Parilla — fresh out of law school and looking to take on a corrupt insurance company in a David-versus-Goliath battle for justice.
The shout-out to Weltons was an “honor” for the owner, who with her husband opened the appropriately named tiny bakery at 682 King St. three years ago. pie was the first thing on the menu, she said.
“ Pie is something that is so special to us,” Welton said. “Back in 2018 when we were living in Tulum, Mexico, and working at Hartwood; I made pie for family meal. It was the sweetest sensation and immediately went on the menu at the restaurant.”
The dessert features a brown butter salty crust, custard vanilla filling, topped with tangy whipped cream. Similar to a chess pie or pecan pie without pecans, Welton said, “it's a creamy and balanced after dinner treat.”
A call-out on a national show this month couldn’t have be better for the tiny bakery. The owners are wrapping up plans to expand into a new space at 684 King St. — the little brick parcel next door.
Hannah Welton said upon completion in the next few weeks, she’ll move over the front of house operations with a coffee bar and room for 10 that will replace the outdoor alleyway tables — currently the only spot to sit and enjoy the daily rotation of treats.
“This just made me so happy,” Welton said of the surprise shout-out. “There are a lot of shows that film in Charleston, and to have any kind of brand awareness, it’s just really cool.”
Berkeley, Dorchester Counties on receiving end of $9B Google investment
Tiana Maxwellhttps://www.live5news.com/2025/10/13/berkeley-dorchester-counties-receiving-end-9b-google-investment/
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - Two counties in the Greater Charleston area will see a $9 billion investment from major tech giant Google as it looks to expand its infrastructure and programs.Google announced the two-year investment Monday, which will span over 2026 and 2027, saying it would help them as the company works to support its Cloud and artificial intelligence growth and its workforce development.This investment will fund the expansion of Google’s Berkeley County campus as well as further development of campuses that...
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - Two counties in the Greater Charleston area will see a $9 billion investment from major tech giant Google as it looks to expand its infrastructure and programs.
Google announced the two-year investment Monday, which will span over 2026 and 2027, saying it would help them as the company works to support its Cloud and artificial intelligence growth and its workforce development.
This investment will fund the expansion of Google’s Berkeley County campus as well as further development of campuses that are already under construction in Dorchester County.
“Google’s continued investment in South Carolina strengthens our position as a national leader in technology and innovation,” Gov. Henry McMaster said. “Our longstanding partnership with Google has created countless opportunities for our people, and will continue to open new doors for growth and success.”
Google Head of Data Center Public Relations Amber Tillman says the new investment ties into a partnership with the Electrical Training Alliance.
The partnership aids workforce development in the Lowcountry through the company’s AI Opportunity Fund. The fund is a $75-million initiative designed to help Americans develop AI skills nationwide.
“This will support training for electricians across South Carolina, and it will increase the suggested pipeline of new electricians in the state by 150% by 2030,” Tillman says.
Dorchester County officials say this investment will increase tax revenue, allowing community investment and increased funding for its schools.
Dorchester County Council Chairman David Chinnis shared this statement:
Just last year, Google made its historic investment in Dorchester County, bringing valuable economic opportunities to our community. We appreciate the continued partnership with Google and this investment further strengthens our region’s workforce by creating quality jobs and expanding pathways for local talent, while reinforcing the County’s position as a hub for long-term economic growth. In addition to supporting our local economy, this investment provides significant funding towards both school districts in Dorchester County each year and further supports our next generations through education.
Tillman says the company connects organizations, businesses and schools to develop AI skills through programs.
The Greater Summerville/Dorchester Chamber of Commerce and USC College of Information and Communications are partnering with Google to host a “Make AI Work for You” Workshop to help business grow online.
Click here to register for the workshop.
Charleston Co. magistrate judge charged with possessing child sex abuse material
Emily Johnsonhttps://www.live5news.com/2025/09/16/charleston-co-magistrate-judge-charged-with-possessing-child-sex-abuse-material/
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - A Charleston County magistrate judge has been suspended from his judicial duties by the Supreme Court of South Carolina after he was charged with child sexual abuse material possession.James B. Gosnell, Jr., 68, is accused of possession of child sexual abuse material, according to the United States Department of Justice.He was officially suspended by Chief Justice John Kittredge on Tuesday, according to a court filing.Investigators with the Department of Homeland Security received a tip from the...
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - A Charleston County magistrate judge has been suspended from his judicial duties by the Supreme Court of South Carolina after he was charged with child sexual abuse material possession.
James B. Gosnell, Jr., 68, is accused of possession of child sexual abuse material, according to the United States Department of Justice.
He was officially suspended by Chief Justice John Kittredge on Tuesday, according to a court filing.
Investigators with the Department of Homeland Security received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about several financial transactions with a distributor of child sexual abuse material from the United Kingdom. The payments came from a peer-to-peer online money transfer account associated with his phone number, address and email account in November 2024.
Gosnell’s attorney, Lionel Lofton, said federal authorities executed a search warrant at Gosnell’s home and arrested him after the search was complete. They found a flash drive containing numerous videos and images depicting child sexual abuse, which include videos and images of minors, infants and toddlers engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Gosnell is scheduled to appear for a bond hearing at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Lofton said.
Documents state specifically that Kittredge found Gosnell’s “continued service as a magistrate in Charleston County poses a substantial threat of serious harm to the public and the administration of justice.”
It stated the suspension was based on credible information provided to the court.
Gosnell is the judge who presided over the bond hearing for Charleston church shooting suspect Dylann Roof, who would later be convicted of the June 18, 2015, shooting deaths of nine parishioners of Mother Emanuel AME Church in downtown Charleston.
Gosnell made a brief statement just before the hearing began, calling Charleston a “very strong community” with “big hearts.” But he sparked a controversy when he spoke of the victims of the massacre.
“We have victims, nine of them,” he said from the bench. “But we also have victims on the other side. There are victims on this young man’s side of the family. Nobody would have ever thrown them into the whirlwind of events that they have been thrown into. We must find it in our heart at some point in time, not only to help those that are victims, but to help his family as well.”
On June 24, 2015, then-South Carolina Chief Justice Jean Toal signed an order replacing Gosnell as chief magistrate. Terms of chief magistrates run for six months and Gosnell’s had been set to expire just six days later, South Carolina Supreme Court Clerk of Court spokesperson Rosalyn Frierson said at the time, adding that it is “not uncommon” for a magistrate to be replaced before his or her term has ended.
As of Tuesday afternoon, no court filings or documentation can provide context on what led to Gosnell’s suspension.
MUSC’s proposed ‘Innovation District’ could transform downtown Charleston
Gracie Kirschnerhttps://www.live5news.com/2025/08/26/musc-looking-increase-downtown-charleston-presence-with-campus-expansion/
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - The Medical University of South Carolina may soon take a major step toward expanding its footprint in downtown Charleston.At a special meeting Tuesday evening, the city’s Planning Commission will vote on a proposal to create a 62-acre Medical District Overlay Zone, a zoning change that would give MUSC and the city more flexibility to grow together on the peninsula. The zone would eliminate certain restrictions and help fast-track future development as part of MUSC’s long-term “Innovation Dis...
CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - The Medical University of South Carolina may soon take a major step toward expanding its footprint in downtown Charleston.
At a special meeting Tuesday evening, the city’s Planning Commission will vote on a proposal to create a 62-acre Medical District Overlay Zone, a zoning change that would give MUSC and the city more flexibility to grow together on the peninsula. The zone would eliminate certain restrictions and help fast-track future development as part of MUSC’s long-term “Innovation District” plan.
The overlay would allow higher housing density, relaxed parking requirements and building height limits would increase to 200 feet to make room for a new comprehensive cancer center, which university leaders say is the catalyst for the entire innovation district.
Oversight of the demolition of more than a dozen buildings is also part of the proposal, some of which may have historical significance.
University President Dr. David J. Cole said the initiative has been in the works for more than a year and a half; its goal is to honor the city’s history while also building a future where MUSC can thrive as a statewide academic health system.
“We’ve been a part of this community for 200 years,” Cole said. “Our plan is to be part of this community for the next 200 years. But in that context, we have to build for the future.”
Cole said the university has no intention of harming the city’s history and, in fact, is working to preserve and restore it.
“We have no intention of getting sideways with the Preservation Society or anybody else within the city. We respect the neighborhoods. This zone overlay, if it’s a truly historic building, changes nothing,” Cole said. “We will continue to elevate and maintain those buildings. I know that there’s been concern out there that MUSC has not been doing its part, but I’ll tell you, we have been renovating facilities.”
Cole said some of the university’s most notable renovations, like Whitcliffe House and Anderson House, took years to do and have resulted in vast improvements by the university. He said this overlay zone will allow for even more projects like these.
“In an innovation district of the future, I would anticipate that those historic properties will be an essential element of the culture and elevation of what is Charleston. What is an innovation district in Charleston? It’s celebrating our common history. It’s being able to see both the past and the future,” Cole said.
Cole said that the university’s future is focused on continuing their commitment to best-in-class care and they need to grow to do that with the trust of the community and city leaders behind them.
“We’ve always been good neighbors, we will continue to be good neighbors,” Cole said. “I think, at the end of the day, there has to be mutual trust that this is going to be how we walk down this path. I always tell people, don’t judge us by what people say, judge us by our actions. I think our actions have proven that we’re an outstanding, trustworthy, high integrity organization and we’ll continue to do that.”
Cole acknowledged that challenges from their Downtown location like workforce housing, traffic, and parking won’t be solved overnight but, this innovation district aims to fill some of those gaps.
“We’re not going to solve any of those alone,” he said. “We want to do that in a respectful manner as a part of this community, but also, for us to be able to deliver what our mission is, we need to redevelop and reconfigure and revitalize our campus.”
He said he thinks the city proposed this overlay zone to allow them to do just that and, if they don’t take action soon, he worries they may have to consider alternative locations to expand.
“If we sit back and we do nothing or we sort of move at one step after the other in a plotting manner, I think at some point we will be faced with the decision of should we be in downtown Charleston. That’s not where I want to be.”
The Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. Tuesday in the first-floor public meeting room at 2 George Street. The public is encouraged to attend.
MUSC hopes to open the new facility by 2030, pending approval and continued development of the Innovation District.
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