WASHOUGAL — Boat launches from the Port of Camas-Washougal have gone a litt le more high tech.
On Feb. 9, a new digital launch ramp ticket machine went online. The green obelisk resembles those new parking-sticker dispensers proliferating in downtown Vancouver and Portland. The machine, located at the marina pay station kiosk, dispenses $7, single-day launch ramp and parking permits to display on your dashboard while you’re out on the water. They’re valid until midnight on the day of purchase.
“Boaters have asked for a more convenient method to purchase launch ramp tickets, and we delivered,” said David Ripp, port executive director. “During a busy summer weekend, it’s not uncommon for us to see 400-500 boat launches, and this new machine makes it quick and easy to purchase launch ramp tickets using debit or credit cards.”
The machine should make life harder for vandals and thieves and easier for port staff. You’ll still be able to buy tickets for cash at the port office during regular business hours. The solar-powered machine was purchased for $10,532 from a Morristown, N.J., company.
