Gas Prices Continue Slow Climb

Illinois drivers are feeling more pain at the pump. AAA reports the statewide average for regular unleaded hit $4.26 a gallon Friday. That’s up 11 cents from last week—and 85 cents higher than the same date last year, when the average was $3.41. Illinois is also running higher than every neighboring state, with border states all averaging below $3.89 a gallon. One major factor is the state’s gas tax, now 48.3 cents per gallon. For commuters, families, and businesses, the increase means travel and delivery costs are climbing as summer demand continues.