High gasoline prices have set a record of dubious distinction. On Tuesday the national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline topped $3 per gallon for the 1,000th consecutive day for the first time on record.

AAA forecasts that the national average will remain above $3 per gallon for at least another 1,000 days, barring a major economic recession.

Paying less than $3 a gallon could be as much “automotive history” as going to a drive-in movie, AAA said. The streak began Dec. 23, 2010. Last year fuel was the most expensive year on record, with gasoline averaging $3.60 a gallon, AAA said.

Prices in St Joseph are on a downward arc over the last several weeks, with stations currently posting prices ranging from $3.29 to $3.39/gallon. The statewide average in Missouri is $3.339. The national average is just over $3.51/gallon