The Lawrence City Commission was right to change the court use policy at Sports Pavilion Lawrence to allow up to 20 days per year when all eight courts are in use.

The policy previously required that at least one court be available for free play during operating hours at the facility. Commissioners voted for the change Tuesday.

Ultimately, keeping at least one basketball/volleyball court open to the public at all times bumped up against the needs of major events that the facility was designed to attract.

In July, the city was criticized for not having courts open during the Hardwood Classic, a large basketball tournament that attracted about 300 youth basketball teams. That tournament generated about $2.5 million in direct business sales and $200,000 in local taxes.

City staff recommended Tuesday’s change as a way to “secure and retain large tournaments/events.” Since opening in the fall of 2014, the pavilion has hosted more than 60 tournaments or events that generated more than $9.75 million in economic impact for the city.

The city of Lawrence put about $22 million into the Sports Pavilion at Rock Chalk Park project. Advocates touted the public benefits of the facility including the pavilion’s eight courts, practice fields, walking track, cardio equipment area and weight room. The designation of a court for free play was presented as one of the key community benefits. But the economic impact of major events is a fair tradeoff to having to close public access to the courts for about 5 percent of days each year.

Now that the policy has been changed, much of the policy’s success will depend on Lawrence Parks and Recreation Department staff’s follow through on commitments to minimize the impact of the court closings. Staff members said they would work to limit the number of hours free play is not offered and will ensure free play is available at other recreation centers when tournaments are ongoing. Staff also said they would open courts to free play as tournaments progress and the demand for courts lessens.

Sports Pavilion Lawrence remains a great community asset, both as a public facility and as an economic engine that attracts thousands of out-of-town visitors for frequent sports tournaments. The city commission’s policy change on court usage was a good compromise to ensure both missions are accomplished.