this is the 3rd year that it has been pay launch, your not paying for parking, your paying for launching. The $5 goes towards improvements, so far they have build a new dock and repaired the ramp several times. At low tides ther is a 8 inch drop at the end of the dock, you will see a sign attached to the dock that has a arrow showing you where the drop off is. At high tide it is not an issue, at low tide it is, so be careful not to drop your axles off the end of the ramp. more important when pulling out.
There is parking along the street where you can see a bunch of contruction going on, they are building a project called Spirit Square which will be a gathering place for the public to use. I think it may include a picnic area and viewing area. Should be nice when it is complete.