Free bus rides in Connecticut will end Friday after a year of free service.

Georgette Isaac, of Bridgeport, says free bus service the past year has saved her hundreds of dollars, so bringing back fares does not sit well with her. She hopes lawmakers are listening.

"I think it should be free for good," said Isaac.

Starting Saturday, every public transit system bus in the state will begin charging full fares once again.

Greater Bridgeport Transit head Doug Holcolm says even though free fares will be ending, there are still plenty of ways riders can save money.

"The 31-day pass for $70 is the least expensive way to go. And any of our passes, they're all based on time, so it's any bus, in any direction as often as you like," he said.

Ahead of Saturday, many riders Thursday were already buying passes.

Angela Betancourt says after taking full advantage of the free miles, she prefers to greet the inevitable return to normal with a smile.

"It's a good service," said Betancourt. "I'm very happy person."

Holcolm says fares will not be going up and transit services will not be reduced. He says they will be expanded in certain areas with some routes covering more ground and having more stops.