MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Milwaukee County Zoo's African animals will be the beneficiaries of a $25 million capital campaign over the next 25 years. More than $16.7 million has been raised during the quiet phase of the campaign.

The zoo officially kicked off that campaign on Thursday afternoon.

The first phase will improve The Adventure Africa section which makes up about 25% of the zoo.

The elephant, African hoofstock, hippopotamus, and rhinoceros exhibits will all be upgraded in the next few years. 

Construction is already underway for the new elephant home which is expected to open in spring, 2019. The changes will include a larger area with a semi-heated outdoor area for the elephants to enjoy in winter and a large barn for guests to see the elephants inside. 

The new hippo exhibit will include underwater viewing.

Officials say it is the largest change to the Zoo since 1961.