Gas Prices Dip In The Hudson Valley As Labor Day Approaches

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — Planning to wrap up the summer with a trip? Gasoline prices are lower this year compared to last, but AAA officials aren't sure it's going to last.

So far this year, demand is 0.9 percent lower than a year ago.

"I think that inflation has cut into other areas of the family budget, leaving less for non-essential driving," Robert Sinclair, Jr, public affairs senior manager for AAA Northeast, told Patch on Wednesday. "Also, 40 percent of drivers have told us in surveys that $3.00 per gallon is the pain point for the price of gasoline and they would drive less, not eat out or delay a major purchase to pay for gasoline."

As of Monday, the national average was $3.86; by Sunday it had dipped slightly to $3.818. Last year the national average price for gas was $3.90.

"Although the national average did a U-turn this week, the road ahead could lead to higher prices,” said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson. “Ongoing concerns regarding potential storm activity could hinder falling pump prices this fall."

In New York State, the average price for gas — $3.903 — was down almost 2 cents a gallon from a month ago — $3.920 — which is 20 cents below Aug. 27 last year.

In the Hudson Valley, the average price of gas Sunday was:

• Dutchess/Putnam: $3.887
• Kingston: $3.889
• White Plains: $3.945

Still, AAA travel agency data showed domestic bookings for air travel, hotels, rental cars and cruises were up 4 percent. A survey of AAA Northeast members showed more than 85 percent plan to drive to their Labor Day destinations.

Visiting friends and family, local attractions and the beach were the top destinations for AAA Northeast members. The largest percentage will take a trip between 50 and 200 miles.

OPEC production cuts and refinery operations curtailed by high heat have kept prices high this summer, AAA officials said. A major storm hitting the Gulf Coast could worsen the situation.

AAA Northeast says the busiest time will be between 2 and 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 31, according to INRIX data.

Friday, Sept. 1 is also expected to see heavier than normal traffic from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. AAA anticipates that Monday will be a very busy travel day — and in the Hudson Valley, most public schools are opening Sept. 5 or 6.

Labor Day Weekend is one of the deadliest times of year on the nation’s roadways. Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety reminds drivers to stay focused on driving, awake, aware and sober, and to ensure every passenger is buckled up appropriately.