Gas prices tick up in New Jersey, across nation

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) - Gas prices have ticked up a bit in New Jersey and across the nation as crude oil prices continue to climb and refineries prepare for spring maintenance.

AAA Mid-Atlantic says the average price of a gallon of regular gas in South Jersey was the state on Friday was $2.33, up a penny from last week but still a big drop from the $2.67 at this time a year ago.

The national average gas price Friday was $2.30 a gallon, up two cents from last week - but also far below the national average of $2.54 a year ago.

Analysts say prices increases have been minimal for the moment, but prices should trend higher as refineries begin maintenance in March and switch over to more expensive summer-blend gasoline.