Gulf coast refinery maintenance began last week and gas prices already reflect increases. Southeast pump prices jumped as a whole last week and the nation's average for a gallon of regular gas climbed 7 cents from a week ago. Although many discounters in the 'Boro bumped prices up, the lowest price per gallon was $3.07.
“Motorists shouldn’t be surprised if gas prices continue inching up this week,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Last year, prices peaked at $3.79 at the end of February and slowly dropped through April. This year, February prices are expected to remain well below year ago levels.”
A barrel of oil settled Friday at $100.30 on the NYMEX-- less than $1 more than the week prior.
The national average for a gallon of regular, unleaded gasoline is $3.35, 7 cents more than last week. Florida's average of $3.39 rose 7 cents from last week. Georgia’s average of $3.21 rose 3 cents, while Tennessee's average of $3.17 jumped 9 cents from last week.