SUMTER, S.C. — Swan Lake Iris Gardens — one of Sumter’s most visited and historic outdoor destinations — is set to undergo its most significant upgrades in decades as the city moves forward with two major improvement projects.

City officials confirmed the work is part of preparations for the gardens’ upcoming 100-year centennial and carries an estimated price tag of about $4 million.

The first project is a full renovation of the Sister Wimberly Playground, which will receive its first major overhaul since it was built. Shelley Hartley, public information officer for the City of Sumter, said the playground will honor the granddaughter of the gardens’ original founder.

“One of the major projects we are doing is redoing the entire children’s playground area,” Hartley said. “We are naming t

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