RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN - Tennessee residents received a glimmer of relief at the pump as gas prices in the state edged slightly lower over the past week. According to AAA - The Auto Club Group, the Tennessee Gas Price average now stands at $2.95, marking a two-cent decrease from the previous week. This comes as a welcome development following a double-digit jump in prices just two weeks ago.

Megan Cooper, spokeswoman for AAA, noted that despite the minor dip, the nation is currently undergoing refinery maintenance season, coupled with an anticipated increase in fuel demand as spring approaches. This combination suggests that motorists should brace for continued fluctuations in gas prices in the coming weeks.

However, at the local level in Rutherford County, drivers are facing a less favorable scenario. Gas prices at local stations have dropped out of the top ten for the lowest prices in the state. In fact, Rutherford County now finds itself among the bottom 23 counties in Tennessee with the highest average gas prices. With an average price of $3.05 per gallon for regular unleaded fuel, Rutherford County residents are feeling the pinch at the pump.

Comparatively, neighboring counties like Bedford and Cannon are enjoying lower prices, with averages below the $3 mark. Despite this disparity, 77% of gas stations across Tennessee are still offering prices below $3 per gallon, providing some relief for motorists.

Nationally, gas prices experienced a sudden spike two weeks ago before settling at $3.26 per gallon. The reopening of the BP-Whiting refinery in Indiana, which had been offline due to power issues, may have contributed to the easing of pump prices. This refinery's shutdown had led to increased gasoline prices throughout the Midwest.

Data from the Energy Information Administration indicates that gas demand remained relatively stable last week, while domestic gasoline stocks saw a slight decline. These factors have helped stabilize the national average, which remains 16 cents higher than a month ago but 10 cents lower than prices a year ago.

While Tennessee's gas prices show signs of improvement on a broader scale, local communities like Rutherford County continue to grapple with higher-than-average rates. As the state navigates through refinery maintenance season and anticipates rising fuel demand, motorists are advised to stay vigilant and monitor prices closely.