A press release from AAA Idaho states Idaho gas prices will resume a slow descent this week.

According to the press release, the average price for a gallon of regular in Idaho dropped to $3.54. The national average is $3.21. The average price for a gallon of regular in Rexburg is $3.49. Idaho ranks 7th in the country for most expensive fuel.

“As the weather toggles back and forth, we may see gas prices fall in fits and starts,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “But the overall trend has been relief for much of the year, and that should continue barring some unforeseen event.”

The West Texas Intermediate benchmark for crude oil is trading near $70 per barrel, the press release stated. This price is the same as a week ago, but $5 less than a month ago and $9 less than a year ago.

The press release said the Energy Information Administration reports that gasoline demand increased nearly 8.8 million barrels per day. Refineries are producing at 92 percent of capacity nationwide, compared with 89.5 percent in the Rockies region.

“It’s time for seasonal maintenance and the switch to winter-blend fuel. Refineries take turns going off-line to make the change and complete repairs,” Conde said. “Fingers crossed that all goes well.”