Low gas prices spur Spring Break traveling

A local economist and travel agent say southern Colorado is getting economic benefits from an increase in spring break traveling because of low fuel prices.

“We’ve seen a 20 percent increase in customer traffic since last year, so that’s really big,” said Mariam Sher of American Travel International. “The gas prices and airline tickets are cheaper. It’s also been cold, so people want to get away.”

Fred Crowley, an economist at the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs, said gasoline currently sells for 80 to 90 cents less than a year ago.

“That means $250 in yearly savings per vehicle,” he said. “Many households have more than one vehicle. That’s major savings over a long trip. Enough to take an extended vacation. Or take a trip when you couldn’t afford to before, when gas prices were higher.”

Although many travelers continue to fly to warmer climates and beaches for spring break, Garden of the Gods on Sunday was full of travelers from other states who opted to drive to Colorado and take advantage of cheaper gas prices.

“My son just turned 18,” said Tony Guthrie, who lives near Fort Worth, Texas. “This is probably the last chance we’ll get to do this on spring break. I definitely notice the difference when I fill up. It’s not $80. It’s more like $50.”

Cassandra Craigie of Muskegon, Mich., is a student who made her first trip to the Garden.

“My plane ticket was a little cheaper than usual,” she said. “I definitely came for that reason, and the price kept me from coming last year. It’s absolutely amazing to see the mountains.”

Crowley said he expects gas prices to remain around $2.50 through summer and at least through the end of the year.