HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission made a policy U-turn and will resume printing the toll schedule on the tickets it hands out to motorists who pay cash.

The Patriot-News of Harrisburg first reported Wednesday that the commission had made the change in response to criticism by turnpike users and state Auditor General Jack Wagner.

The earlier decision had been adopted as a cost-savings measure because a state law calls for annual increases in tolls, so tickets would have to be changed every year when prices go up. The fare-free tickets had been expected to save about $80,000 per year.

For now, the turnpike commission is using tickets that reflect the current fare schedule, but once those fares go up on Jan. 2, it will convert temporarily to the tickets without fare prices, said spokesman Bill Capone. When the new tickets are ready, which will take months, the turnpike will convert back to tickets that contain the fare schedule.

Wagner sent a letter Tuesday to turnpike CEO Joe Brimmeier that raised his concerns that the change could conceal the 10 percent rate hike in cash tolls that is about to take effect. Fares will rise by only 3 percent for E-ZPass users.

“The commission is not being open with the public about the costs to use the turnpike and how much those costs are increasing,” Wagner wrote, urging the turnpike to reverse its decision.

Also Wednesday, the turnpike announced it was undertaking a yearlong study as it considers whether to switch the 545-mile system into a cashless, all-electronic method of toll collection. Consultants will look at cost, the effect on traffic and revenue, an implementation schedule and other factors.

Under such a system, toll booths would be removed and motorists would pay through E-ZPass or other options that involve taking pictures of license plates and billing vehicle owners.

“By eliminating toll booths, customers could experience a safer, faster and more convenient trip,” Brimmeier said.