Climbing national gas prices, coupled with the end of one of Safeway's money-saving gas promotion could mean difficulty for local motorists.
After 100 days of holding at below-2011 prices, AAA Automobile Club reports that gas prices across the country continue to climb to record levels.
“Motorists are paying more for gasoline than they did this time last year, following the upswing in prices at the pump since July 4,” said Martha M. Meade, Manager of Public and Government Affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic.
AAA estimates that, nationwide, gas is 5 cents more expensive than one week ago and 29 cents more expensive than one month ago. The current average local price is $3.63 per gallon, which is 14 cents more higher than this time last year.
According to AAA, “Analysts believe the summer’s gas price increases, a trend not typically seen during the latter part of the summer driving season, could put us on course to pay more in 2012. This would make 2012 the costliest year ever at the gas pump.”
Analysts suggest that the rise in gas prices stems from several factors, including concerns about overall supplies of crude oil amid the conflicts between Israel and Iran and within Syria, as well as falling domestic oil supplies caused by operating issues at several refineries.
Safeway Ends 3 Cent Discount Promotion
Bristow and Nokesville drivers, who frequent the Safeway gas station at the Braemar Village Plaza on Sudley Manor Drive to save some money will be disappointed this week, as the supermarket chain will no longer offer their club members a 3 cent discount on gasoline.
According to an employee at Safeway, the decision to discontinue the promotion for Safeway Club members came from the company’s corporate headquarters. Safeway still offers a 10 cent discount for every $100 spent on groceries.
Gas Price to Rise Until at Least Labor Day
“Experts see prices rising through Labor Day, but they do not expect a big spike considering rising prices coincide with the end of the summer driving season,” Meade said. “This is typically a time when gas expenditures start a downward trend, as long driving vacations decrease and kids are back in school, however recent trends have been anything but typical so it may very well be a wait and see as autumn approaches.”
For current gas prices in the area, look here.
Hanna Kras contributed to this article.
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