Revitalization of South Sumter Park begins; construction expected to last 10 months

Despite a rainy day, City of Sumter broke ground on the revitalization of South Sumter Park at 630 S. Sumter St. last week. The park will include an upgraded spray park, new playground, baseball field, basketball courts and pickleball courts. A walking trail will be added, as well as brick and iron fencing, landscaping and more with a larger parking lot, according to the city's Facebook page. The city is paying for the revitalization out of a state appropriation, or grant, that it was awarded specifically for the project thanks to Rep. J. David Weeks, D-Sumter. There are also private contributions helping to pay for the project. During a December Sumter City Council meeting, Director of Public Services Michael Geddings told council the project should be completed about 10 months after construction begins.