Hillsborough County commissioners voted to push ahead with a $150 million expansion plan for ZooTampa. The project could double what the zoo covers now. Public funds will supply $75 million across 15 years, and the zoo will match that through ticket sales and gifts from donors.

Plans call for fixing up the Asia and Africa exhibits. There’s also a new South American section coming.

This addition will sit on city property that maintenance crews use now. Once built, it’ll link the zoo to the Hillsborough River, opening doors for water taxis from downtown Tampa someday.

“Over the last ten years, we’ve really become a world-class zoo and a leader in conservation and education,” said Chief Zoological Officer Chris Massaro, according to Fox 13 News.

About 1.2 million people visit each year. Growth has been strong, which means animals need better homes and guests want fresh exhibits.

County officials praised the zoo’s affordability and its work teaching kids. “They’re one of the most financially accessible destinations in Hillsborough County,” said Commissioner Joshua Wostal. “On top of that, they offer extreme environmental and educational benefits to our community.”

Money comes from the Community Investment Tax. That same pot supports the Straz Center, Tampa Bay History Center, and Florida Aquarium. Some commissioners worry about spreading funds too thin when other places ask for help.

“The reality is that probably, many of them, if not all of them are going to have similar requests,” said Commissioner Ken Hagan.

Massaro said no green space in Lowry Park will disappear because of construction. The zoo’s growth might even make boat ramps and the waterfront easier to reach. “The expansion of South America wouldn’t impact any green space in Lowry Park; it would continue to provide access for the community to the boat ramps,” Massaro said. “And the exciting thing is there’s potential of water taxis coming up connecting downtown to Zoo Tampa.”

Work on current exhibits might start late next year. No one has announced when the whole project will wrap up.