Drivers in SWVA Face Higher Gas Prices

Gas prices across Virginia have reached an average of $3 per gallon for self-serve, regular-grade gasoline. Drivers in Southwest Virginia should consider using public transportation.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) expects regular-grade gasoline retail prices to average $3.17 per gallon this year, 39 cents per gallon higher than in 2010. Existing market prices of futures and options contracts for gasoline suggest an 8 to 10 percent probability that fuel prices could exceed $4.00 a gallon late this summer.

For commuters who live in and around St. Paul, but work in Russell County, Four County Transit’s Route 71 Work Express is available. This route runs from St. Paul to Lebanon and beyond.

The fare is only 50¢ per boarding. Riders who use the route morning and afternoon spend only $1.00 per day.

At 6:55 a.m., the bus picks up its first riders at the park-n-ride in St. Paul. The remaining stops include the Milton Shopping Center in Castlewood, Russell County Government Offices in Lebanon, Rosedale Baptist Church park-n-ride, and the Four County Transit Administrative and Maintenance Facility (a transfer point) in the Wardell Industrial Park.

The bus follows the reverse route in the afternoon, leaving Wardell at 4:30 p.m., arriving in Lebanon at 5:00 p.m., and ending in St. Paul at 5:35 p.m.

Although the bus cannot deviate from its fixed route, riders may request other stops along the route, including points on Main Street in Lebanon. To request an additional stop on the Route 71 Work Express, please call Four County Transit at least 48 hours prior to your trip.

Riders may request a complete schedule by calling Four County Transit at 1-276-963-1486 or 1-888-656-2272. Schedules are also available at www.fourcountytransit.org.

Four County Transit is a fully coordinated public transit system which has served the residents of Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell counties since 1998. Operated by AASC, Four County Transit enables greater mobility for the residents of the four counties. For more information, please contact 276-964-7180 (toll-free 1-888-656-2272) or visit www.fourcountytransit.org.