Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk broke ground Monday on a major project that includes the expansion of a new seal enclosure and a 4D theater.

Seals are temporarily swimming in another enclosure, but their new home will be seven times bigger.

The aquarium is also building a new 4D theater that will replace the IMAX.

The cost for both projects is $40 million with money coming from federal and state funds.

The 4D theater, which will seat up to 180 people, will be an interactive viewer experience that audience members will be a part of.

Many politicians came to the groundbreaking including Sen. Richard Blumenthal and state Sen. Bob Duff.

"This is something that is going to elevate this aquarium to a whole new level," said Mayor Harry Rilling.

Jason Patlis became the president and CEO of the Maritime Aquarium just two weeks ago. He says he's happy to be in the new role as the construction starts.

The aquarium has been around for 31 years, and administrators and politicians believe the construction will continue to help the Maritime Aquarium be a staple in the Norwalk community.

Construction is the aquarium's response to the city's replacement of the walk railroad bridge.

The project is expected to last one year but will not impact other exhibits at the aquarium.