AAA Texas: Gas Prices Continue Moving Lower

    HOUSTON--April 4, 2003--Lower crude oil prices and ample supply of gasoline flowing to retailers combined to push down gas prices throughout Texas last week, according to the Weekend Gas Watch, compiled by AAA Texas. The Weekend Gas Watch monitors the average price of gasoline at popular destinations for motoring trips.
    The statewide average price for a gallon of regular unleaded self-serve is $1.551 which is three cents lower than last week's level, 3.5 cents below the price last month and 24 cents higher than last year. Of the major metropolitan areas in Texas, Dallas had the highest price with an average of 1.573 per gallon, while motorists in Corpus Christi have the lowest price of $1.485.
    "Lower crude oil prices and falling gas prices at the wholesale lever appear to be major factor in sending prices lower across Texas," said Carol Thorp, spokesperson for AAA Texas said. "It appears we're in a honeymoon period when all things look rosy. But the next couple of weeks could see a bottoming out of prices with the annual change from winter grade gas to summer grade."

Average prices as of 12:01 a.m., April 4, 2003:


                                                               Record
            Area          Regular          Change               Price
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Austin-San
 Marcos                  $ 1.518      -2.7 cents    $ 1.580 (3/19/03)

Corpus Christi           $ 1.485      -3.9 cents    $ 1.590 (2/20/03)

Dallas                   $ 1.573      -2.6 cents    $ 1.666 (5/12/01)

Fort Worth               $ 1.562      -2.4 cents    $ 1.660 (5/22/01)

Houston                  $ 1.557      -3.0 cents    $ 1.639 (5/12/01)

San Antonio              $ 1.531      -2.4 cents    $ 1.582 (3/18/03)