BETHLEHEM, Pa. — It’ll cost you slightly more to get around this Memorial Day weekend.
Gas prices are up about 10 cents a gallon in Pennsylvania from this time last year, and up 11 cents in the Lehigh Valley region, according to AAA.
The national average for a gallon of gasoline is trending downward, falling 1.4 cents in the past week to $3.598, the Federation of Motor Clubs said.
In the Lehigh Valley the average price per gallon is $3.679, up from $3.560 last year. Pennsylvania’s average price is $3.758, an increase from $3.652 this time last year.
AAA says prices are softening because of weak domestic demand and oil costs below $80 a barrel. The national average now is 7.5 cents less than a month ago and 5.9 cents more than a year ago.
Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton average prices:
- May 21, 2024 $3.679
- May 14, 2024 $3.677
- May 21, 2023 $3.560
Pennsylvania average prices:
- May 21, 2024 $3.758
- May 14, 2024 $3.764
- May 21, 2023 $3.652
Philadelphia average prices:
- May 21, 2024 $3.660
- May 14, 2024 $3.700
- May 21, 2023 $3.614
Millions are expected to hit the highways this Thursday through Monday, with Friday being the peak travel time.
In the Lehigh Valley, Troop M spokesman Trooper Nathan Branosky of the Pennsylvania State Police said authorities will be cracking down on aggressive drivers.
That includes motorists who are texting while driving, using handheld mobile phones, speeding or not wearing a seat belt.
Troopers also will be focused on the ongoing initiative Selective Traffic Enforcement Against Drunk Drivers (STEADD) for those operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
During last year’s Memorial Day weekend, Troop M troopers investigated 42 crashes and charged 31 motorists with DUI, according to State police figures. Troop M includes Lehigh, Northampton and Bucks counties.
The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission projects 2.9 million motorists will use the turnpike this holiday weekend, between Thursday and Monday. That's forecast to be up 1.5% from 2023.
