Gasoline prices rise sharply in Jersey

Trenton — The average price of regular gasoline hit $2.58 in the Garden State on Friday, which is up from $2.52 a month ago and $1.57 a year ago, according to AAA Mid-Atlantic. The current average price — which has jumped eight cents since Dec. 30 — also tops the highest price reported in 2009, which was $2.57 on June 21. “Motorists notice when gas prices rise in the winter, so they’re watching even more than usual these days,” auto club spokesman David Weinstein said. “This trend is atypical for the season.” However, Garden State prices remain the lowest in the region. AAA says Pennsylvania drivers are paying $2.77 a gallon on average, while New Yorkers pay $2.90. Overall, New Jersey’s average price is tied for fifth cheapest in the nation.