A. 
Purpose and intent. The intent of this article is to provide reasonable standards and procedures for the creation of programmed open spaces that will improve living, working and natural environments. These standards shall not infringe upon the Borough's ability to maintain, program, alter, or otherwise control open spaces that are Borough owned.
B. 
Applicability. This section shall apply in any case where this chapter requires programmed open space in the R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, or Office Districts.
C. 
Standards.
(1) 
The programmed open space shall be designed to support activity that is customarily associated with the principal use on site. Where such space is open to the public, the space shall be designed to support activity that is customarily associated with the area where it is located. For example, open spaces in residential areas shall not be designed to support commercial activity.
(2) 
A plan for the programmed open space area shall be prepared by a registered landscape architect and submitted as part of the site plan approval.
(3) 
The purpose of the space shall be communicated through the landscape materials. The placement of permanent amenities - that may include but is not limited to benches, water features, playground equipment, active recreational facilities, and the like - shall also communicate the purpose and intent of the space.
(4) 
No more than 50% of a programmed open space shall be hardscape materials.
(5) 
If the programmed open space is intended to be used in the evening, it shall be well lit.
(a) 
Lighting facilities shall be provided for the safety and convenience of the uses or patrons.
(b) 
Lighting fixtures shall be provided and arranged, aimed, and installed in a manner so as not project their output onto or into adjacent properties, skyward, or onto a public roadway and to protect the street and neighboring properties from excessive glare and hazardous interference of any kind.
(c) 
Lighting of predominantly horizontal surfaces shall be aimed straight down and have uplight component no greater than 1%.
(6) 
Where programmed open space is open to the general public, well-displayed signage shall clearly indicate that the public may use the space.
(7) 
Where programmed open space includes spaces for active recreation, such spaces shall be set back a minimum of 20 feet from all adjacent residential properties.
(8) 
Buffers, screens, and other required landscaping elements may count towards the programmed open space requirements if they meet all other standards in this section.