Photos: Residence Inn by Marriott Groundbreaking

Located near the intersection of Lake Murray Boulevard and Interstate 26 is Irmo's first hotel, the Residence Inn by Marriott. 

Officials broke ground today at the site of the new 100-room hotel, which features fully equipped kitchens in each suite, an outdoor pool, fitness center, an outdoor putting green and meeting room.

There's also a plan to add a restaurant, office and/or retail space, according to a release. 

About 50 people were on hand for the ceremony — which was conducted by the Greater Irmo Chamber of Commerce — including Irmo Mayor Hardy King, Clancy Cipkala, a managing partner of the hotel, Rep. Chip Huggins and Congressman Joe Wilson.

Cipkala said the hotel will employ between 30 to 50 people once it's completed. 

The hotel is scheduled to open in the spring of 2013.