Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - The national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $3.19, down three cents from last Monday. One year ago, the price was $3.49. The New York State average is $3.21, no change from last Monday. A year ago, the state average was $3.59.
AAA of Western and Central New York (AAA WCNY) reports Buffalo averaging $3.20, which is up 1 cent from last Monday.
Gas prices across the country and in New York State have been moving higher as the conflict between Israel and Iran continues to rattle oil markets. U.S. airstrikes last week caused petroleum futures to spike temporarily, with oil creeping up to $78 per-barrel. That quickly dissipated, and as of Monday morning, oil prices are back to what they were pre-conflict, ranging from $65-to-$69 per barrel.
With Independence Day around the corner, and 61.6 million holiday travelers preparing to hit the road next week, gas prices may increase slightly.
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AAA projects 72.2 million people will travel, at least, 50 miles from home over the Fourth of July holiday period from Saturday, June 28 to Sunday, July 6. This year's domestic travel forecast is an increase of 1.7 million travelers compared to last year, and 7 million more than in 2019.
The 61.6 million people traveling by car is a 2.2% increase over last year, and the highest volume on record. This Independence Day holiday period is expected to see an additional 1.3 million road travelers compared to 2024.
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A Buffalo manufacturer has just renewed a big defense contract with L3Harris, solidifying a 40-year relationship.
Sealing Devices Inc. in Lancaster will supply thermal management materials and critical defense components for handheld radios, Humvee bomb covers and other military equipment over the next three years for L3Harris Technologies.
With conflicts in the Middle East, the war in Ukraine and increased defense spending, many companies are seeing an uptick in defense work.
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Chiavetta's Catering & Chicken BBQ has pulled back on a plan to expand with a site in Lancaster.
The company, which has operations in Brant and Lockport, had expected to take over the former Al-E-Oops restaurant at 5389 Genesee Street, and operate a dine-in location.
Chiavetta's announced an update on social media Wednesday night: "While we're eager to expand, the timing simply isn't aligned for us right now at that location. We're still committed to serving our loyal customers, and are actively exploring other exciting opportunities to bring Chiavetta's closer to you."
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