By DIANTÉ MARIGNY
editor@portisabelsouthpadre.com
Boaters, anglers, city leaders and community members gathered Tuesday morning to celebrate the official opening of the Marisol Laguna Madre Boat Ramp, the first new public bayside access point built on South Padre Island in more than three decades.
The grand opening ceremony was held Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. at the new facility, located at 1705 Laguna Blvd.
The project expands public access to the Lower Laguna Madre while providing new amenities designed to better serve both residents and visitors. In addition to the concrete boat ramp, the site includes truck and trailer parking, a fish cleaning station, and an ADA-accessible loading and attendant dock adjacent to the launch.
City officials called the project a significant investment in the island’s outdoor recreation and waterfront infrastructure.
“This boat ramp represents a major investment in our community and in expanding public access to one of South Padre Island’s greatest natural resources,” Mayor Patrick McNulty said in a statement released ahead of the opening. “Whether you’re an avid angler, recreational boater or simply enjoy spending time on the water, this project creates new opportunities for residents and visitors alike.”
The Marisol Boat Ramp is the first public bayside launch constructed on the island in more than 30 years, addressing a long-standing need for additional access to the Laguna Madre.
The approximately $3.2 million project was funded primarily through more than $2.4 million in grant funding, with the City of South Padre Island contributing the remaining 25% of the cost.
Construction was completed with the assistance of LJA Engineering and Bryant Industrial Services.
Following a ceremonial ribbon cutting, attendees toured the facility and were among the first to use the new launch, which city officials hope will enhance recreational boating while supporting tourism and the local fishing community.
The Marisol Laguna Madre Boat Ramp is now open to the public.