March 21st, 2015 by WCBC Radio

Prices at the pump continue to level off following a 40-day upswing that ended on March 8 thanks to falling crude oil prices that have even dropped to a six-year low this week. Though some U.S. refinery issues are not resolved, abundant supplies and a stronger U.S. dollar are factors contributing to crude oil’s downward slide. Given current market factors, motorists should continue experiencing relief at the pump in the short term. The national average price of regular unleaded gasoline is $2.43 on Friday, down a penny on the week.  While 15 cents higher than month ago prices, Friday’s average is $1.10 below year ago prices.  Maryland’s average is lower than the national average at $2.41 per gallon, which is four cents less than last week’s price, but 11 cents higher than last month.  The State average is $1.13 per gallon less than last year’s price on this date. Cumberland doing better than the state and national average down to $2.37 a gallon to start the weekend.