Panama City Marina boat ramp reopens

The Panama City Marina boat ramp is back and ready for boats to hit the open water again.

Tuesday, Panama City Leaders held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the re-opening. Mayor Greg Brudnicki said it took them about six months to clear damaged boats and other storm debris in the area. He said this is just one of many boat ramps that'll eventually re-open in the city.

"We're redeveloping Carl Gray. We have the money already appropriated for it so that's going to be one. Snug Harbor, which is just over the bridge going into Millville, we will develop that. We've got other places in the city already open. Church Street. We should have at least eight in the city when we're done," said Mayor Brudnicki.

Volunteers with AMIkids Panama City Marine Institute used boats and diving gear to help remove storm debris under water.

Executive Director of AMIkids Panama City Marine Institute, Ron Boyce, said it's a great experience for the youngsters to learn the importance of helping out their community.

"This boat ramp is really special to Panama City Marina City students. It's right next door to us so this is where we launch our boats. It's right there so we love this," said Boyce.

In honor of their hard work, AMIkids was allowed to be the first to launch their boat "Captain Bob" in the water Tuesday. City officials said the boat ramp will be open from sunrise to sunset.