Rhode Island's Average Gas Price Tops $3 Per Gallon

PROVIDENCE, RI — Rhode Island's average gas price topped $3 per gallon this week. After steadily rising over the past few months, the average price rose by one cent over the past week to $3.01.

AAA Northeast warned drivers that prices are expected to continue to rise.

"Higher crude oil prices and robust demand for gasoline — reinforced by record road travel during the July Fourth weekend — are pushing pump prices higher," said Lloyd Albert, a spokesperson for the organization. "We had hoped that global crude production increases would bring some relief at the pump this month, but weekend OPEC negotiations fell through with no agreement reached, and now crude prices are poised to surge to a seven-year-high."

Following the sharp rise in prices in the spring, the increase has slowed in rec3nt weeks. This time last month, the average cost per gallon was five cents lower, while it was 91 cents lower this time last year.

Rhode Island's average price per gallon is 12 cents lower than the national average of $3.13. Compared to New England neighbors, Massachusetts is one cent cheaper at $3 per gallon on average, while Connecticut's average is currently $3.13.