Capital Campaign Will Transform the Milwaukee County Zoo
announce a capital campaign that will help reimagine the Zoo over the next 25 years. The first
phase of the Window to the Wild campaign will support Adventure Africa. This project will
transform 25% of the developed footprint of the Zoo, representing the largest physical change to
the Zoo since its move to this location in 1961. Adventure Africa will create new homes for the
elephants, African hoofstock, hippos and rhinos.
The Window to the Wild Capital Campaign is possible because of the strong partnership between
Milwaukee County and the Zoological Society, which historically has shared the cost on major
projects. As a partner with Milwaukee County, the Society has set a goal to raise $25 million for its
portion to support Adventure Africa. Thanks to the many generous donations from community
leaders, foundations and local businesses, more than $16.7 million has been raised during the quiet
phase of the campaign. “This is the first step toward transforming our beloved Zoo, and I invite the
community to be a part of this exciting adventure and help us make Adventure Africa a reality,” says
Jodi Gibson, Zoological Society president and CEO.
Construction is well underway for the new elephant home, which is expected to open to the public
in spring 2019. Changes not only include a larger area, but also a semi-heated outdoor area for the
elephants to enjoy in winter and a large barn where guests can see the elephants year-round when
they are inside. The yard will be filled with enrichment items to help the elephants remain mentally
and physically fit. “Elephants are wonderful, intelligent animals. They have great social needs and
we have to continue to accommodate that,” says Chuck Wikenhauser, Milwaukee County Zoo
director. “The amount of space and the amount of enrichment opportunities we have in there is
really going to create such a wonderful atmosphere for the animals.” Plans for Adventure Africa also
include a new hippo exhibit with underwater viewing followed by a new rhino exhibit.