Gas prices in Rhode Island fall for 4th straight week

TIVERTON, R.I. (WLNE) — After having previously reached record highs, gas prices in Rhode Island have steadily declined in recent weeks, giving Americans hope this pain at the pump could soon go away.

These soaring gas prices have put a pinch on American wallets through the first half of 2022. In the middle of all this, one gas station is trying to relieve that pain sooner rather than later.

“This is just getting ridiculous with these high gas prices,” Justin Tripp said.

After having previously surpassed the $5 average for a gallon of regular in Rhode Island, prices have declined for four straight weeks. AAA now reports the average cost to fill your tank in the ocean state is $4.71 per gallon.

That price is still $1.68 higher than one year ago. That is why the owner of George’s Gas and Service in Tiverton has slashed his prices.

As of Monday afternoon, the price for diesel was $5.35, 70 cents cheaper than the state average. As well as $4.21 per gallon of regular, 50 cents cheaper than the average across Rhode Island.

“$4.21 is still expensive. But they’re actually happy about the fact that we’re actually doing something for them,” said George Alzaibak, the owner of George’s Gas and Service.

Since Alzaibak first lowered his prices two weeks ago, drivers have noticed the difference.

“I’ve noticed the lower price and started coming,” Kathy Clarendon said, a driver filling up her tank at George’s.

“That’s why I’m here. I drive by every day, so I fill up here all the time,” Dean Martin added.

Lines have stretched onto the main road as people have tried to fill up their tanks at a discounted price.

“It’s massive. Try filling up dump trucks, excavators, skid steers, and all that stuff,” Michael Ferreira said, who pays more than $500 to fill up his trucks for his landscaping company.

Petroleum experts predict we could see another week of the downward trend of the past month. However, fear of the price of oil surging again has experts predicting prices will rise once again.

Alzaibak said even with his below-market prices, he still profits nearly 30 cents per gallon on sales.

The small business owner called on bigger companies to follow his lead and offer drivers some relief at the pump.

“Greed, greed. Absolute greed,” George Alzaibak said. “The barrel’s $105. The price on the market should not be $4.50.”