Dockside residents will be able to move belongings beginning April 14th

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) –After being evacuated over a month ago, Dockside Condominium residents have a plan approved to move their belongings out of the building in just a few weeks.

The City of Charleston and Dockside Association worked together to approve a plan for residents to safely move out if they choose.

The building and surrounding townhomes were evacuated in February. Officials said “the structure has insufficient capacity to continue to be safely occupied until substantial structural strengthening is implemented.”

Residents were given just days’ notice and asked not to move out large items like furniture. Starting April 14th, Dockside condo residents will be able to move their belongings out.

Four units will be cleared at a time beginning with the top floor. Two of the units will have a packing day while the other two units will move their belongings out of the building. They are still able to use the service elevator and residential elevator for moving out items

Each unit will each be assigned a specific day to move and documents say they hope to complete this over an 11-week process. However, residents and any movers they hire will sign a legal waiver acknowledging the risks of entering the dockside building.

Residents told News 2 they’re relieved to finally be able to get important items they left behind

“It’s good because now I know when I can get my things out and before I didn’t. That was a whole thing trying to deal with an insurance company because the building didn’t fall down so this kind of clears that up,” said Resident Harry Traulsen Jr.

The City of Charleston provided information for two moving services willing to sign waivers, but residents will still pay for their movers.

News 2 reached out to the Dockside Board of Directors who said in a statement: “Safety is our top priority as we work to assist our residents in moving their personal belongings out of Dockside. Our board and staff are in regular communication with our community members, prioritizing safety every step of the way to ensure a smooth and efficient transition.”