[Added 3-25-2010 by Ord. No. 2010-02]
The Town Center Overlay provides for alternative development options that will advance the following community goals for new development in the town center and gateway areas of Springettsbury Township:
A. 
Ensure the long-term strength of the Township's retail market.
B. 
Enhance the existing retail success with amenities, streetscape and design improvements that improve the appearance of the commercial core.
C. 
Provide multimodal transportation facilities throughout the Town Center including transit facilities, sidewalks and trail connections.
D. 
Encourage a mix of uses with a focus on shopping and retail with community uses, such as parks and plazas.
E. 
Connect adjacent neighborhoods to the Town Center shopping area.
F. 
Create clear and attractive gateways into Springettsbury Township from surrounding communities.
A. 
Description of district. The Town Center (T-C) Overlay consists of the areas which are delineated and defined in the Official Zoning Map.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: The Official Zoning Map is on file in the Township offices. See also Appendix A, Zoning Map Amendments, included at the end of this chapter.
B. 
Overlay concept. The Town Center Overlay described in this article shall be an overlay to the existing underlying districts as shown on the Official Zoning Map and, as such, the provisions for the Town Center District shall serve as a supplement to the underlying district provisions. Where there happens to be any conflict between the provisions or requirements of the Town Center Overlay and those of any underlying district, the Town Center Overlay provisions shall apply. In the event that any provision concerning the Town Center Overlay is declared inapplicable as a result of any legislative or administrative actions or judicial discretion, the basic underlying district provisions shall remain applicable.
A. 
Permitted uses.
(1) 
Public parks and playgrounds.
(2) 
Farmers' market.
(3) 
General office.
(4) 
Professional office.
(5) 
Medical office.
(6) 
Library.
(7) 
Public facility.
(8) 
Adaptive reuse to mini storage facility (subject to § 325-132.1).
[Added 2-27-2020 by Ord. No. 2020-01]
B. 
Permitted temporary uses.
(1) 
Outdoor dining.
(2) 
Outdoor sales under the conditions that:
(a) 
No permanent storage of merchandise, articles or equipment shall be permitted outside a building.
(b) 
No goods, articles or equipment shall be offered for sale in the parking lot except as provided for under § 325-131.
(c) 
All items displayed outside the premises must be stored inside the building after business hours.
(d) 
No kiosks, newspaper stands or similar uses or structures shall be allowed outside of any building.
(e) 
No vending machines shall be located in the front yard setback.
C. 
Conditional uses. Conditional uses shall be subject to design criteria established in the underlying zoning and the overlay.
(1) 
Any use permitted by right in the underlying zoning district, except uses that are expressly prohibited in § 325-197D.
(2) 
Any use permitted by special exception or as a conditional use in the underlying zoning, subject to the requirements as stated in Article XXIX, and except uses that are expressly prohibited in § 325-197D.
(3) 
Any mix of uses that are permitted by right, special exception or as a conditional use within the underlying zoning, except uses that are expressly prohibited in § 325-197D.
D. 
Prohibited uses.
(1) 
Trailer sales. The sale of commercial truck or trailer sales is prohibited.
(2) 
Mobile home sales.
(3) 
Except as permitted in § 325-197A(8), storage facilities, including mini storage facilities.
[Amended 2-27-2020 by Ord. No. 2020-01]
(4) 
Sexually oriented businesses.
(5) 
Automobile sales in which 100% of automobiles are displayed outdoors.
Any development within the T-C Overlay shall meet all of the following minimum requirements:
A. 
The development shall be generally consistent with the Comprehensive Plan for Springettsbury Township and the Springettsbury Town Center Plan.
B. 
The development shall be completed according to a Master Plan that depicts complete build-out of the T-C tract with common authority and responsibility. If more than one person has an interest in all or a portion of the T-C tract, all persons with interests in any portion of the T-C tract shall join as applicants and shall present an agreement, in a form acceptable to the Township Solicitor, guaranteeing that the T-C tract as a whole shall be developed in accordance with any approval granted under this article as a single T-C with common authority and governing documents.
C. 
The Master Plan shall show proposed streets, alleys, cartway widths, lots, common open spaces, recreation areas, major pedestrian and bicycle pathways, parking areas, major stormwater facilities and proposed types of commercial and residential uses. The Master Plan is intended to be similar to what is commonly termed a "sketch plan."
(1) 
The Master Plan is not required, for the purposes of these zoning district regulations, to meet the minimum submission requirements for a preliminary or final subdivision/land development plan.
(2) 
An applicant may voluntarily submit a preliminary subdivision or land development plan at the same time as a conditional use application, and thereby have the conditional use application be considered during a time period that overlaps with review and approval of the subdivision or land development plan.
D. 
The Master Plan and application for the T-C development shall be reviewed by the Planning Commission and require approval by the Board of Supervisors as a conditional use. Once conditional use approval is granted for the T-C development, then individual lots may be submitted for approval under the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance[1] and allowed uses may occur as permitted-by-right uses, provided the lots and uses comply with the approved Master Plan.
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 289, Subdivision and Land Development.
E. 
All other requirements of this chapter and other Township ordinances shall apply within the Town Center Overlay, except for provisions that are specifically modified by this article of this chapter.
F. 
Notwithstanding any other provision of Article XXXIII of this chapter, for improvements to and/or reuse of existing floor area within an enclosed shopping mall not involving exterior building additions or expansions so as to increase floor area by the lesser of 15,000 square feet or 2% of the existing floor area of the enclosed shopping mall, the master plan requirements of §§ 325-198 and 325-207 of this chapter shall not apply, and the provisions of §§ 325-200L and 325-208 of this chapter are the only requirements of Article XXXIII of this chapter that shall apply.
[Added 7-26-2018 by Ord. No. 2018-08]
A. 
Street layouts should provide for blocks that are 300 feet to 600 feet deep by 300 feet to 600 feet long. Block lengths shall not exceed 500 feet without a dedicated alley or pathway providing through access.
B. 
All setbacks are measured from the face of curb.
C. 
Main building setbacks along the north side of East Market Street, in accordance with Figure 325-203 in § 325-203, Street standards:
(1) 
Front yard, minimum: 25 feet.
(2) 
Front yard, maximum: 50 feet.
(3) 
Side yard, minimum: zero feet.
(4) 
Rear yard, minimum: 15 feet.
D. 
Main building setbacks along the south side of East Market Street, in accordance with Figure 325-203 in § 325-203, Street standards:
(1) 
Front yard, minimum: 20 feet.
(2) 
Front yard, maximum: 50 feet.
(3) 
Side yard, minimum: zero feet.
(4) 
Rear yard, minimum: 15 feet.
E. 
Main building setbacks along Eastern Boulevard, in accordance with Figure 325-203, in § 325-203, Street standards:
(1) 
Front yard, minimum: 24 feet.
(2) 
Front yard, maximum: 50 feet.
(3) 
Side yard, minimum: zero feet.
(4) 
Rear yard, minimum: 15 feet.
F. 
Main building setbacks along all other streets, in accordance with Figure 325-203 in § 325-203, Street standards:
(1) 
Front yard, minimum: 18 feet.
(2) 
Front yard, maximum: 50 feet.
(3) 
Side yard, minimum: zero feet.
(4) 
Rear yard, minimum: 10 feet.
G. 
Accessory building setbacks, in accordance with Figure 325-203 in § 325-203, Street standards:
(1) 
Front yard, no accessory structures shall be permitted in the front yard.
(2) 
Side yard, minimum: five feet.
(3) 
Rear yard, minimum: five feet.
H. 
Maximum lot coverage or impervious surface ratio shall be 85%.
I. 
Minimum lot widths required in the underlying zoning shall be waived provided that the T-C development follows the design standards in § 325-200.
When evaluating a conditional use application the Board of Supervisors shall consider the following standards:
A. 
Relationship to Township plans. The application shall be generally consistent with the spirit, purpose, and intent of the Springettsbury Town Center Plan, the Springettsbury Comprehensive Plan and other relevant plans adopted by the Board of Supervisors.
B. 
Pedestrian access.
(1) 
The principal entrance of each principal structure shall have direct pedestrian access through a network of sidewalks, pedestrian pathways and crosswalks.
(2) 
Pedestrian access shall be provided from the rear parking facilities to the ground floor uses, either through rear building entrances, pedestrian ways along the perimeter of buildings or by pedestrian throughways which connect the rear parking lots to the sidewalks along the front lot line.
(3) 
Pedestrian throughways may be exterior and located between buildings or may be incorporated into the interior design of a structure. Pedestrian throughways shall be a minimum of five feet wide.
C. 
Refuse areas. The storage of refuse shall be provided inside the building(s) or within an outdoor area enclosed by either walls or opaque fencing. Any refuse area outside of the building shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with the building(s), shall not be located in the front of the building, and be entirely screened by a fence (no chain link or other strictly functional design) or enclosure six feet in height.
D. 
Screening.
(1) 
All rooftop mechanical equipment and other appurtenances shall be concealed by or integrated within the roof form or screened from view at ground level of nearby streets. The following, when above the roofline, requires screening: stairwells, elevator shafts, air-conditioning units, large vents, heat pumps and mechanical equipment. The screening of mechanical equipment shall not be subject to the maximum height requirements if it is unoccupied.
(2) 
Service and loading areas must be visually screened from the street and pedestrian ways.
(3) 
Service and loading areas shall be located on the side or rear of the building.
E. 
Signs.
(1) 
All signs in the T-C Overlay shall follow the requirements in Article XXIV, Signs, except where the requirements contradict the requirements listed below in Subsection E(2) and (3).
(2) 
Pole signs are prohibited.
(3) 
Monument signs shall not extend more than six feet above ground level, except in the case of shopping centers, which may extend 18 feet above ground level. These dimensions supersede dimensions expressed in § 325-107B(3)(c).[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See now § 325-107B(3)(b).
F. 
Exterior lighting. All exterior lighting shall be designed to prevent glare onto adjacent properties. Pedestrian pathways shall be clearly marked and well lit. Lighting should be sufficient for security and identification without permitting light to trespass onto adjacent sites. The height of fixtures shall be a minimum of 15 feet and a maximum of 18 feet for parking lots and a minimum of 10 feet and a maximum of 12 feet for pedestrian walkways.
G. 
Design standards for new development.
(1) 
At least one public entrance of all principal structures shall be oriented towards the street. Vehicular openings such as those for garages and loading areas shall not constitute a public entrance.
(2) 
Primary building entrances shall be clearly visible and identifiable from the street and delineated with elements such as roof overhangs, recessed entries, landscaping or similar design features.
(3) 
The front and street side exterior walls of each principal structure shall each contain a minimum of 25% of transparent or translucent materials on each story below the roofline. Garage facades shall be included in the transparency/translucency calculation.
(4) 
Facade articulation standards.
(a) 
Buildings shall be articulated by changes in wall planes, changes in exterior finishes, variations in fenestration and additions to architectural detailing.
(b) 
Facades shall have horizontal articulation elements. At a minimum, facades shall have the following horizontal elements; windowsills, window lintels, protruding horizontal courses on each floor of the building, including the cornice if the roof is flat rather than gabled or sloped.
(c) 
Facades shall have a distinct base of at least one foot in height at ground level using textures, colors, materials or a change in plane of at least one inch.
(d) 
Facades shall have vertical articulation at a maximum distance of every 30 feet of continuous facade. Vertical articulation shall be created through changes in plane or building material for a minimum of one-foot wide and protruding a minimum of two inches.
(e) 
The top level should be treated with a distinct outline with elements such as a projecting parapet, cornice or other projection if the roof is flat rather than gabled or sloped.
(f) 
Architectural embellishments that serve to add visual interest to roofs, such as dormers, masonry chimneys, cupolas, towers and other similar elements, shall be included in the design of new buildings.
(5) 
Parking facilities shall be permitted only to the rear or side of the principal structure. No parking shall be permitted in the front yard.
(6) 
Vehicular access for parking garages shall be located so that it causes the least possible impact on continuous retail frontage, pedestrian pathways and sidewalks.
H. 
Design standards for improvements to and reuse of existing buildings. The Board of Supervisors expects that where the applicant is improving or changing an existing property to accommodate a change in use, the applicant will attempt to integrate any of the following design standards that are relevant to the improvements being completed. The applicant shall illustrate how a new use within an existing structure attempts to accommodate the following standards:
(1) 
Locate primary building entrances toward the street.
(2) 
Provide more than 25% transparent or translucent materials on each story below the roofline.
(3) 
Locate parking to the side or rear of the principal building.
(4) 
Provide pedestrian pathways in accordance with the circulation standards stated in § 325-202.
(5) 
Landscape along the edges of the property.
(6) 
Add landscaped islands or diamonds with trees throughout parking areas.
(7) 
Utilize pedestrian-scale facade articulation and changes in plane on all facades to distinguish each building story and imply regularly spaced storefronts between 20 feet to 40 feet.
I. 
Design standards shall be applicable to all conditional uses, including but not limited to auto-oriented uses, such as gasoline filling stations, auto repair shops and automobile sales. Street standards, streetscape standards, and landscaping of parking areas expressed in this article shall be applicable.
J. 
Automobile sales shall display some portion of its automobile stock indoors in a showroom. The showroom building shall have a minimum size of 3,000 square feet.
K. 
Storage, parking and/or display of vehicles in the front yard setback shall be prohibited.
L. 
Design standards for improvements to and/or reuse of existing floor area within an enclosed shopping mall not involving exterior building additions or expansions so as to increase floor area by the lesser of 15,000 square feet or 2% of the existing floor area of the enclosed shopping mall, shall be subject to the following standards:
[Added 7-26-2018 by Ord. No. 2018-08]
(1) 
Where modifications or improvements exceeding 30% of the existing building facade of an individual tenant or establishment are proposed (excluding signs), either singularly or cumulatively, the following standards shall only apply to the portion of the facade proposed to be modified or improved:
(a) 
Orient new primary building entrances toward internal or external streets.
(b) 
Provide more than 25% transparent or translucent.
(c) 
Utilize pedestrian-scale building facade articulation and changes in plane on all facades to distinguish each building story, and incorporate regularly spaced vertical elements (e.g., projections, recesses, openings, materials, etc.) between 20 feet and 40 feet wide.
(2) 
Provide pedestrian access in accordance with the circulation standards stated in § 325-200B(1) of this chapter.
(3) 
Landscape along the edges of the property.
(4) 
To the extent that modifications or improvements to the existing parking lot are proposed, provide new landscaped islands or diamonds with trees in accordance with § 325-206A(3) of this chapter throughout the portion of the parking areas proposed to be modified or improved.
(5) 
All new rooftop mechanical equipment and other appurtenances shall be concealed by or integrated within the roof form or screened from view at ground level of nearby streets. The following, when above the roofline, requires screening: stairwells, elevator shafts, air-conditioning units, large vents, heat pumps and mechanical equipment. The screening of mechanical equipment shall not be subject to the maximum height requirements if it is unoccupied.
(6) 
Signs are permitted in accordance with Article XXIV of this chapter and may be modified in accordance with § 325-208 of this chapter.
Development in the T-C Overlay shall be designed with an interconnected network of circulation systems that facilitates vehicular, pedestrian and bicycle use. An interconnected street pattern shall create multiple routes in the development. Bikeway and trail systems shall complement the street network. The Springettsbury Town Center Plan illustrates conceptually the location of trails and new streets through the Town Center. The concept plan in the Town Center Plan shall serve as a guide for new street and trail connections.
The circulation system shall provide functional and visual links within the T-C Overlay and shall be connected to existing and proposed external development. The circulation system shall provide for different modes of transportation, including vehicular, pedestrian and bicycle.
A. 
Pedestrian circulation.
(1) 
Where feasible, existing pedestrian routes shall be retained and enhanced.
(2) 
All streets, except for alleys, shall have sidewalks on both sides.
(3) 
Sidewalks shall be provided along existing streets connecting the T-C to existing or future development adjacent to the T-C.
(4) 
Sidewalks shall be built in accordance with § 325-203, Street standards, and in no case shall sidewalks be less than five feet wide.
(5) 
All sidewalks shall be separated from the street curb by a planting strip built in accordance with § 325-203, Street standards, and in no case shall the planting strip be less than five feet wide.
(6) 
A multi-use path, constructed of the same material as sidewalks, shall be located on the north side of East Market Street and shall not be less than 12 feet in width.
(7) 
Trails, other than the East Market Street path, shall be not less than eight feet in width.
B. 
Bicycle circulation.
(1) 
Where feasible, existing bicycle routes shall be retained and enhanced.
(2) 
Facilities for bicycle travel may include off-street bicycle paths which may be shared with pedestrians and other nonmotorized users.
C. 
Vehicular circulation. Motor vehicle circulation shall be designed to minimize conflicts with pedestrians and bicycles. Traffic-calming features, such as neck downs, on-street parking, traffic circles and medians, may be used to encourage slow traffic speeds.
(1) 
Street hierarchy. Each street within a T-C development shall be classified according to the following:
(a) 
East Market Street. East Market Street provides regional and local access to retail, commercial and residential uses.
(b) 
Eastern Boulevard. Eastern Boulevard provides local access to residential, retail and commercial uses.
(c) 
T-C local street. Northern Way, Haines Road, Memory Lane; and Industrial Way provide local access to residential, retail and commercial uses.
(d) 
T-C internal street. T-C internal streets provide access within shopping centers, and are also part of the T-C's street network to distribute local traffic. These streets shall remain in private ownership.
(2) 
General guidelines for street design:
(a) 
Streets shall accommodate safe pedestrian movement and bicycle traffic.
(b) 
Street design shall incorporate traffic-calming techniques.
(c) 
Street design shall incorporate on-street parking in retail areas wherever possible.
(d) 
Street design shall incorporate on-street and off-street loading zones, on T-C internal streets, as appropriate for the development.
(3) 
Street layout.
(a) 
Streets shall terminate at other streets or at public land, except T-C internal streets and T-C local streets, which may terminate in stub streets when such streets act as connections to future phases of this or adjacent development.
(4) 
Center-line turning radii. Tight turning radii at street intersections shorten pedestrian crossings and inhibit drivers from turning corners at high speeds.
(a) 
Proposed T-C internal streets shall have a minimum center-line turning radius of 166 feet.
(5) 
To allow for emergency vehicles to turn corners, a clear zone shall be established that is free of significant obstructions.
(6) 
Clear sight triangle. The minimum clear sight triangle shall be 100 feet for intersections of streets with existing or proposed streets.
Chart 325-203 describes the street design standards for the T-C Overlay. Figure 325-203 illustrates required and recommended design.
Chart 325-203, Street Design Standards
Street Type
Number of Travel Lanes
Parking
Sidewalk Width Minimum
(feet)
Planting Strip Width Minimum
(feet)
Minimum Lane Width
(feet)
Curb
Maximum Curb Radii
(feet)
Minimum Design Speed
(mph)
East Market Street
4
No
5 (south side)
12 (north side)
5 (south side)
8 (north side)
12*
Yes
25
30
Eastern Boulevard
4
When desired by the Township
8
8
11*
Yes
25
25
T-C local streets
2
When desired by the Township
5
5
11*
Yes
25
25
T-C internal streets
2
2 sides
5
5
10
Yes
20
20
* Street width does not include width of median or turning lanes.
Figure 325-203
East Market Street
325 Fig 325_203 East Market St.tif
Eastern Boulevard
325 Fig 325_203 EAstern Blvd.tif
T-C Local Street
325 Fig 325_203 TC Local St.tif
T-C Internal Street
325 Fig 325_203 TC Int St.tif
Each T-C development shall contain one or more public plaza(s). The purpose of the public plaza is to be a gathering space befitting the adjacent uses. An office building would develop a passive public plaza with seating and landscaping. A retail or mixed-use building with retail on the ground level would develop a public plaza for outdoor dining, temporary outdoor sales, amphitheater, children's play spaces, fountains and/or other uses that are amenities for shopping.
A. 
A development containing between 15,000 square feet and 50,000 square feet of gross floor area shall be provided with a public plaza containing not less than 500 square feet.
B. 
A development containing between 50,001 square feet and 100,000 square feet of gross floor area shall be provided with a public plaza containing not less than 800 square feet.
C. 
A development containing between 100,001 square feet and 200,000 square feet of gross floor area shall be provided with a public plaza containing not less than 2,000 square feet.
D. 
A development containing between 200,001 square feet and 300,000 square feet of gross floor area shall be provided with a public plaza containing not less than 3,000 square feet.
E. 
A development containing between 300,001 square feet and 400,000 square feet of gross floor area shall be provided with a public plaza containing not less than 4,000 square feet.
F. 
A development containing between 400,001 square feet and 500,000 square feet of gross floor area shall be provided with a public plaza containing not less than 5,000 square feet.
G. 
A development containing over 500,000 square feet of gross floor area shall be provided with a public plaza containing not less than 7,000 square feet.
H. 
The minimum size required for a public plaza is 500 square feet.
I. 
The plaza shall be located where it is visible and accessible from either a public sidewalk or pedestrian connection.
J. 
A minimum of 10% of the plaza shall be landscaped with trees, shrubs, and mixed plantings with year-round interest.
K. 
The plaza shall use the following paving materials: unit pavers, paving stones, or concrete.
L. 
A minimum of two benches of at least five feet in length are required.
M. 
The plaza shall not be used for parking, loading, or vehicular access (excluding emergency vehicular access).
N. 
Public art, amphitheater, water feature or other amenity deemed similar by the Board of Supervisors is required.
O. 
Trash containers shall be distributed throughout the plaza.
P. 
The plaza shall provide shade by using the following elements: trees, canopies, trellises, umbrellas, or building walls.
Q. 
Lighting shall be provided.
R. 
Plazas shall connect to other activities such as outdoor cafes, restaurants, and/or building entries.
S. 
Plazas shall be located if possible to have maximum direct sunlight with a south or west orientation.
T. 
Plazas, if constructed by a private entity, shall have an agreement with the community for public access.
U. 
Public plazas shall have a minimum dimension of 20 feet.
V. 
Public plazas shall not include required sidewalk area.
A. 
Pedestrian-scale streetlights. Pedestrian-scale streetlights shall be provided along all streets and are intended to increase both pedestrian and vehicular safety as well as enhance the character of the T-C development. Lights shall be spaced between 60 feet and 100 feet apart. Streetlights shall be provided in a manner consistent with the architectural guidelines and acceptable to the Township.
B. 
Benches. Benches shall be provided along all streets and are intended to increase pedestrian activity and enhance the character of the T-C Overlay. One bench shall be provided for every 200 feet of linear street frontage. Benches need not be evenly distributed throughout street frontage.
C. 
Street trees. Street trees shall be provided and installed in accordance with the landscape and public plaza plan.
(1) 
A minimum of one deciduous canopy tree per 50 feet of street frontage, or fraction thereof, shall be planted parallel to the street in the planting strip along all streets and access roads, except for alleys.
(2) 
Street trees shall not be permitted within any required clear sight triangle.
(3) 
Trees shall be selected that are appropriate for their location. The following factors shall be considered when selecting a tree species: maintenance requirements, hardiness, heat tolerance, drought tolerance, salt tolerance, shape and form, and the subsurface growing conditions. The use of native species is encouraged. Invasive species are discouraged. A list of appropriate street trees can be found in the Subdivision and Land Development Code.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 289, Subdivision and Land Development.
(4) 
Trees under wires. Trees located under wires shall not be of a species that is expected to grow into the utility lines. A few examples include:
(a) 
Trident Maple — Acer buergeranum.
(b) 
Hedge Maple — Acer campestre.
(c) 
Eastern Redbud — Cercis canadensis.
(d) 
Japanese Tree Lilac — Syringa reticulata.
(e) 
Cherry cultivars — Prunus serrulata "Kwanzan" and "Okane" prunus X yedoenis.
(f) 
Serviceberry cultivars — Amelanchier.
(g) 
Sweet Bay Magnolia — Magnolia virginiana.
(h) 
Other trees that meet the above criteria.
A. 
General design requirements.
(1) 
Surface parking lots shall have perimeter landscaping a minimum of three feet wide. The landscaping shall include one or a combination of one or more of the following to provide a continuous screen of the surface parking lot:
(a) 
Evergreen hedges (evergreen shrubs installed 2.5 feet on center), installed at four feet in height, to grow into a continuous screen within three years. Breaks in the hedge by a hard surface shall be provided a minimum of every 30 feet and a maximum of every 50 feet for pedestrian access.
(b) 
Mixed planting including street trees installed a maximum of 20 feet on center and evergreen hedges (evergreen shrubs installed 2.5 feet on center), installed at four feet in height, to grow into a continuous screen within three years. Breaks in the hedge by a hard surface shall be provided a minimum of every 30 feet and a maximum of every 50 feet for pedestrian access.
(c) 
Masonry wall sections with breaks by a hard surface for pedestrian access a minimum of every 30 feet and a maximum of every 50 feet. The masonry wall shall be a minimum of 3.5 feet high with plantings on the outside of the wall to provide a continuous screen.
(2) 
Parking lots adjacent to a residential use shall be continuously screened by a six-foot-high wall or fence (chain link fences are prohibited) or plantings. Screening shall include:
(a) 
Evergreen hedges (evergreen shrubs installed 2.5 feet on center), installed at four feet in height, to grow into a continuous screen within three years; or
(b) 
Wall sections, with no wall break of more than nine feet in width, and landscaping to provide a continuous screen.
(3) 
Parking lot interior landscaping. All surface parking lots of 20 spaces or more shall have shade trees with a minimum caliper of 2.5 inches. One shade tree per 12 spaces is required in planting islands, where space permits, or diamonds evenly spaced throughout the parking lot.
(a) 
Planting islands. Planting islands shall be a minimum of four feet wide, and shall be parallel to the parking space. The islands shall be protected by curbing or bollards. Each planting island shall contain at least one shade tree plus ground cover to cover the entire area.
(b) 
Planting diamonds. Planting diamonds, which can be designed and located so that they do not reduce the number of parking spaces provided in a parking lot, shall be a minimum of five feet by five feet and placed at the intersection of four parking spaces. Each planting diamond shall contain at least one shade tree plus ground cover to cover the entire area. Trees with fruit of any kind shall be prohibited in planting diamonds.
B. 
Access. Curb cuts and driveways for parking facilities shall be a maximum of 24 feet wide for two-way drives and 16 feet wide for one-way drives. The curb radii shall be the minimum possible dependent upon width of road, width of driveway and location of parking. The Township Engineer shall authorize the reduction of driveway width wherever he or she finds that projected average daily traffic of the roadway will permit such reductions.
Prior to the issuance of any permits for development within the T-C Overlay, the following steps shall be completed according to the procedures outlined in this section:
A. 
The applicant shall comply with the requirements set forth in the Springettsbury Township Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (Chapter 289) in addition to requirements listed below. The applicant may proceed simultaneously with the formal application as described in Subsection C below and subdivision and land development review process.
B. 
Preapplication review.
(1) 
As part of the preapplication review process, the applicant and Township staff shall make a site visit in order to ascertain site conditions and areas of special concern.
(2) 
Following the site visit, each applicant under this article shall submit a Master Plan as described in § 325-198 in the form of a sketch plan of the T-C development proposal to the Planning Commission. The sketch plan shall incorporate the recommendations made by Township staff during the site visit. The sketch plan shall at a minimum, contain the following:
(a) 
Name and address of the developer (if applicable) and the landowner of the tract.
(b) 
Name of the individual and/or the firm that prepared the plan.
(c) 
Sufficient information to enable the Township to locate the property.
(d) 
A North arrow.
(e) 
Approximate tract boundaries.
(f) 
Delineation of building, parking, and landscaped areas.
C. 
Formal applications.
(1) 
An applicant who desires to develop or redevelop within the T-C Overlay shall submit an application for conditional use approval, together with the following:
(a) 
The plotting of all existing adjacent land uses and lot lines within 50 feet of the proposed development, including the location of all public and private streets, drives or alleys, greenways, public or private parks, railroads, historic sites and other significant natural or man-made features.
(b) 
A list of site data, including but not limited to the following:
[1] 
Total acreage of the tract.
[2] 
Zoning district.
[3] 
Proposed gross area of the development.
[4] 
Proposed gross area of each use within the development.
[5] 
Proposed number of dwelling units and the mix of dwelling types.
[6] 
Acreage of all street rights-of-way proposed for dedication.
[7] 
Acreage and percentage of common open space.
[8] 
Acreage to be sold to individual owners.
[9] 
Acreage to be retained by landowner.
[10] 
Acreage of any civic or institutional use.
[11] 
Proposed number of parking spaces.
(c) 
The proposed location and dimensions of all streets, access drives, parking compounds, sidewalks, pedestrian trails, bikeways and curbing.
(d) 
The proposed location of all lot lines with approximate dimensions.
(e) 
The approximate size of all lots in square feet or acreage.
(f) 
The proposed location and configuration of all buildings.
(g) 
The proposed location, size and use of all common open space areas, structures and recreation facilities.
(h) 
A proposed phasing plan for the T-C development.
(i) 
A narrative of the proposed development's impact on the following resources and the specific measures which will be undertaken to protect and incorporate such features. Resources depicted on the plan shall include, but shall not be limited to, the following:
[1] 
Existing vegetation and woodlands.
[2] 
Natural habitats.
[3] 
Streams.
[4] 
Wetlands.
[5] 
All cultural, historical and natural features on and adjacent to the T-C tract.
(j) 
Landscape and public plaza plan. The applicant shall demonstrate the specific measures employed to achieve the objectives in §§ 325-204, 325-205 and 325-206 through the provision of a landscape and public plaza plan. Each landscape and public plaza plan shall include:
[1] 
Identification and location of existing vegetation to be retained.
[2] 
The type and size of proposed vegetation.
[3] 
Location and specifications of lighting proposed for all portions of the site.
[4] 
The location of proposed street landscaping and the type, size and location of proposed street trees.
[5] 
The type, size and location of landscaping for areas to be screened.
[6] 
The type, size and location of parking lot landscaping.
[7] 
The location and size of proposed public plazas.
[8] 
Location, type and size of proposed recreational equipment, plaza focal point, public art or other similar element.
[9] 
Location and size of trails, greenway or other pedestrian linkages, including the proposed surface treatment.
(k) 
Streetlighting plan providing a complete proposal for the location and installation of streetlighting to serve the T-C development as outlined by § 325-200.
(l) 
Traffic evaluation study in accordance with the requirements set forth in the Springettsbury Township Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 289; Subdivision and Land Development.
(m) 
Elevations or three-dimensional views of the prominent views of the development, which shall include building styles, proportions, massing and detailing.
(n) 
A narrative describing any improvements to the existing site and existing buildings.
(o) 
Statement identifying all modifications of standards under § 325-208 and written support for each modification. This statement must identify the specific modification requested and provide support that the modification meets all requirements of § 325-195A through E.
(p) 
Required application fee.
(2) 
No application shall be considered complete without all of the above-listed items. The Township shall not accept incomplete applications for conditional use.
D. 
The Board of Supervisors in approving conditional use applications shall make compliance with the site plan and any revisions thereto required by the Board of Supervisors a part of the approval. The applicant shall develop the T-C tract in the manner set forth on the site plan and any required revisions thereto unless a change to the site plan is authorized in accordance with Subsections E and F below.
E. 
An applicant may make minor revision to the site plan as is necessary to accommodate fully engineered stormwater management facilities, public sewer facilities, public water facilities, floodplains and changes to street design as may be required by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation as part of a highway occupancy permit. The Board of Supervisors during the subdivision and land development process shall determine whether the applicant's proposed changes to the approved site plan constitute minor revisions necessary to accommodate fully engineered stormwater management facilities, public sewer facilities, public water facilities, floodplains and changes to street design as may be required by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation as part of a highway occupancy permit.
F. 
Provided that any change is approved under the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance[2] an applicant may make minor revisions to the T-C without additional conditional use approval for the following revisions. Alteration of any of the following items:
(1) 
Change in the amount of commercial building area or land area to be devoted to commercial uses of not more than 10%.
(2) 
Increase in the number of dwelling units or decrease in the number of dwelling units of not more than 10%.
(3) 
Increase in the percentage mix of each type of dwelling unit by no more than 10%.
[2]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 289; Subdivision and Land Development.
G. 
An applicant who desires to make a change to an approved site plan that the Board of Supervisors determines does not constitute a minor revision authorized by Subsections E and F above shall apply for and obtain an additional conditional use approval.
(1) 
Any applicant who proposes a change to an approved site plan that shall not alter any of the items set forth in Subsection G(2) below shall demonstrate during the additional conditional use approval process that the site plan for the proposed T-C development as revised by the applicant continues to meet all requirements of this article.
(2) 
Any applicant who proposes a change to an approved site plan that shall alter any of the following items shall demonstrate during the additional conditional use process that the revised site plan for the proposed T-C development continues to meet all requirements of this article and shall also demonstrate that the proposed modification to the approved site plan meets the requirements of Subsection G(3) below:
(a) 
Increase the square footage of commercial development or decrease the square footage of commercial development in excess of 10%.
(b) 
Increase in the number of dwelling units or decrease in the number of dwelling units in excess of 10%.
(c) 
Change in the percentage or mix of each type of dwelling unit.
(d) 
Change in the amount or location of plaza or open space areas.
(e) 
Change in the minimum lot sizes.
(f) 
Change in the building setbacks.
(g) 
Change in the street standards.
(3) 
An applicant who desires to make a revision to a site plan which affects any of the criteria in Subsection G(2) above shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Board of Supervisors during the additional conditional use approval process that such change will:
(a) 
Generally enhance the development plan or not adversely impact its physical, visual or spatial characteristics.
(b) 
Generally enhance the streetscape and neighborhood or not adversely impact the streetscape and neighborhood.
(c) 
Not result in lot configurations or street systems that shall be impractical or detract from the appearance or function of the proposed T-C development.
(d) 
Not result in any danger to the public health, safety or welfare by making emergency vehicle access more difficult or by depriving adjoining properties of adequate light and air.
(e) 
Allow for equal or better results than the originally approved site plan and represent the minimum modification necessary.
The Board of Supervisors may, by conditional use approval, permit the modification of the design standards in order to encourage the use of innovative design. An applicant desiring to obtain such conditional use approval shall, when making application for conditional use approval for a T-C development proposal, also make application for conditional use approval under this section. The Board of Supervisors shall consider both conditional use approval requests simultaneously. Any conditional use to permit a modification of the design standards shall be subject to the following standards:
A. 
Such modification of design standards better serve the intended purposes and goals of the T-C as expressed in § 325-195.
B. 
Such modifications of design standards would not result in adverse impact to adjoining properties or to future inhabitants within the T-C.
C. 
Such modifications will not result in an increase in development densities permitted for the T-C.
D. 
Such modifications will not result in a decrease in public plaza space below that required in § 325-204 for the T-C.
E. 
The extent of modification provides the minimum amount of relief necessary to ensure compliance with the preceding criteria in this article.