The price of gasoline is up 44 cents over the last month. The statewide average is $3.89, compared to $3.45 in April, according to the monthly survey by the Triple-A Motor Club. Triple-A spokesman Nicole Niemi says $4 gasoline is coming. In some parts of the state, it’s already here. The price is over $4 in Cook County, but Niemi expects a statewide average of $4 either this week or next, and prices of $4 or more possibly hitting gas stations Downstate. She says this has resulted in less consumption and miles driven. The cause for the increase: Crude oil, now trading at $124 a barrel, off a high Monday of $126.98. In September 2004, it was a big deal when crude oil hit $50. The Illinois price in May 2007 was $3.32, so the price is up 57 cents year-to-year.