AAA Mid-Atlantic says New Jersey gas prices rise again

TRENTON (AP) — Motorists continue to see higher prices at the pumps in New Jersey.

AAA Mid-Atlantic says the average price of a gallon of regular gas in the state on Friday was $2.56, up 2 cents from last week. But that's still much lower than the price from a year ago, when motorists were paying $3.50.

“Gas prices have jumped much faster this spring than we typically see because of seasonal refinery issues and rising oil costs, though pain at the pumps has been less costly than in the past because gasoline remains a relative bargain in most areas compared to recent years,” said Tracy E. Noble, Manager of Public and Government Affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic. “This could be the year of the summer road trip with lower gas prices motivating millions of people to travel. Many drivers are likely to save hundreds of dollars this summer as gas prices remain more affordable than in recent years.”

This marks the third straight week that pump prices have risen in New Jersey.

The national average price on Friday was $2.76, up 2 cents from last week. But that's also much lower than the national average from a year ago, when motorists were paying $3.66

Analysts say pump prices will likely drop in the coming weeks, as oil prices become more stable and refineries complete their seasonal maintenance work.

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