The Cost of a Trip from White Plains to Morris Plains: Navigating the Maze of Routes Based on Current Gas Prices
Planning a trip between White Plains, located in Westchester County, New York, and Morris Plains, nestled in Morris County, New Jersey, requires careful consideration of various factors. One of the most significant considerations is the cost of the trip, which can heavily depend on gas prices. In this article, we explore different possible routes between these two cities, along with their associated costs and distances. Additionally, we recommend the best route based on current gas prices.
Route 1: The Scenic, but Costly Interstate Route
The most direct and commonly-used route for traveling from White Plains to Morris Plains is via Interstate 287 South and then Interstate 80 West. This route takes you down a picturesque journey through the heart of New York and New Jersey. However, it is also the most expensive route when it comes to gas costs.
Distance and Fuel Consumption
The total distance covered on this route is approximately 53 miles. With an average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, you would require approximately 2.12 gallons of gasoline for a one-way trip.
Gas Costs
To calculate the gas cost, we need to examine the current average gas prices. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the average price of regular gasoline in the New York Metro area is $2.80 per gallon. Based on this, the estimated fuel cost for traveling one-way from White Plains to Morris Plains is $5.94.
Route 2: The Economical Alternate Route
For those looking to save some bucks on gas expenses, an alternate route presents itself. This route takes you through a combination of local roads and highways, providing a reasonably scenic journey while reducing the fuel consumption.
Distance and Fuel Consumption
Taking Route 22 East from White Plains to the Tappan Zee Bridge, followed by the Garden State Parkway South and Interstate 287 South, you would cover around 54 miles. With the same fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, the one-way trip would require approximately 2.16 gallons of gasoline.
Gas Costs
Considering the average gas price of $2.80 per gallon, the estimated fuel cost on this route would amount to $6.05. While this route is slightly longer in distance, the slight increase in gas consumption is offset by the lower average fuel price.
Route 3: The Scenic Yet Time-Consuming Route
If time is not a constraint on your journey, taking the scenic Palisades Interstate Parkway South route presents itself as a great option. This road offers panoramic views of the Hudson River, with various points of interest along the way. However, it should be noted that this route tends to be slower due to its winding nature and lower speed limits.
Distance and Fuel Consumption
Traveling through Interstate 684 South to Interstate 287 South, the Palisades Interstate Parkway South covers approximately 64 miles. Considering the same average fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon, you would need around 2.56 gallons of gasoline for a one-way trip.
Gas Costs
Factoring in the current average gas price of $2.80 per gallon, the estimated fuel cost on this route would be around $7.17. Although this route adds some extra miles to your journey, the increased distance is offset by the lower average fuel price.
Recommendation: Opting for Route 2
Based on current gas prices and considering both cost and distance factors, Route 2, which combines Route 22 East, the Tappan Zee Bridge, the Garden State Parkway South, and Interstate 287 South, shines as the most economical option. While it may be a slightly lengthier route, the gas savings compensate for the additional distance traveled.
By taking Route 2, travelers can save approximately $0.11 compared to Route 1 and $0.29 compared to Route 3, based on average gas prices.
Conclusion
In summary, the best route for a trip from White Plains, New York, to Morris Plains, New Jersey, is Route 2. This journey encompasses Route 22 East, the Tappan Zee Bridge, the Garden State Parkway South, and Interstate 287 South. Not only is this route relatively economical, but it also provides a pleasant driving experience.
The trip length, regardless of the chosen route, can take approximately one hour and fifteen minutes, accounting for traffic conditions and other factors. Remember to consider any potential tolls, as they may also impact the overall cost of the trip.
So, next time you plan to travel from White Plains to Morris Plains, keep in mind the various routes available and their associated costs. Choose Route 2 for a cost-effective journey, allowing you to enjoy the scenic vistas between these two picturesque New York and New Jersey destinations.