ANTIOCH -- Starting this weekend, local boaters will be charged $5 to use the city's new boat launch ramp.

The Delta city opened the $3.7 million state-of-the-art ramp in April after eight years of delays, mostly because of delays in obtaining federal and state permits.

Boaters have been able to use to ramp for free until the installation of new payment kiosk, which was constructed Wednesday.

The $5 fee is good for 24 hours of use.

Yearly passes are able for $100 and start at the beginning of each calendar year, said Ron Bernal, the city's public works director.

"If you're going to launch more than 20 times, it's a good deal," he said.

The launch ramp project included paving over the Barbara Price Marina Park and adding a 129-space parking lot for boaters. The city received an additional grant this year from the Department of Boating and Waterways to add restrooms, a third boarding float and the kiosk.

Questions remain about whether Antioch will keep its older, free launch ramp near Fulton Shipyard open. It remains open for the time being.

City officials hope the new launch boosts boat fuel sales and foot traffic at Humphrey's restaurant, both at the marina, along with bringing visitors to the downtown waterfront.

Bernal sees about two to six boaters and trailers at the launch on average.

"It's a matter of people becoming aware its down there and what a nice area it is," he said.