Internal debate: Does Birmingham benefit from cheap gas?
By Wade KwonArea stations offer gas for less than $2/gallon, lowest since 2009
Motorists, start your pumps.
BirminghamGasPrices.com reports that four stations in the Birmingham area have gas under $2 per gallon. Prices haven’t been this low since early 2009.
- $1.89/gal.: Marathon, near the Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport
- $1.95/gal.: Anis Food Mart, Bessemer
- $1.96/gal.:Â Citgo, Bessemer
- $1.99/gal.: Mystik, Ensley Highlands
The debate: Are low gas prices good for Birmingham?
Pro:Â Birminghamians need all the economic help they can get in a sluggish economy.
Con:Â Short-term economic benefits could cost residents in the long run: pollution, traffic, health problems.
Pro:Â Most stations are locally owned … shop local.
Con:Â Stations typically make their money on big markups on food and beverages.
Pro:Â Lower income workers will benefit the most from cheap gas.
Con:Â Fixing public transit would benefit more people overall.
Pro:Â Families won’t have to choose between filling the tank and other necessities.
Con:Â Low gas prices encourage purchases of SUVs and gas guzzlers.
Pro: Alabama makes those gas guzzlers!
Pro:Â People will drive more.
Con:Â Rush hour jams will be even worse.
Are low prices at the pump good for Birmingham? Tell us your thoughts in the comments.
Photo: Riza Nugraha (CC)
Sunday, December 28, 2014, 12:06 am
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