After two years of being closed, Marco Island’s only public boat ramp is finally reopening. The Caxambas Boat Ramp, which was heavily damaged by Hurricane Ian, will reopen on Feb. 15, bringing relief to boaters who have had to use the Goodland or the 951 Boat Ramp to get on the water.
Goodland resident Jason Allen says the Goodland Boat Ramp has been packed since Caxambas was wiped out.
“This is the only place to launch from for commercial, too, especially. So everybody's coming out of here now,” Allen said.
Now, the ramp is back in shape with new docks and a sitting area. But when it reopens, it will be for recreational boats only. Marco Island city rules state the fuel station and Ship Store are the only commercial operations allowed at the ramp.
“Well, I'm glad they're opening up, but it would be nice if they would let commercials go through there, too. Our water is getting really busy here so,” Allen said.
The onsite Ship Store will also have a soft opening on Feb. 15 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., offering limited sundry items. Over time, it will expand to include frozen bait and other goods. Once fully operational, store hours will extend to 5 p.m.
Next, Marco Island will focus on replacing the fuel service system destroyed by Hurricane Ian. Completion is expected late this year.