Plans unveiled for first Mormon temple in Conn.

FARMINGTON, Conn. (WTNH) - When Peter Fishman, owner of PTK Development, got word that the Mormon Church was interested in his property along Route 4, across from Winding Trails, he thought it was a God send.

"I'm hoping this is a positive thing for the town," said Fishman. "I know people talk about the tax issue, it becomes a non-profit. Non-profits serve a purpose and they're good. They the people of the state, and in this case, people beyond the state."

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is hoping to build Connecticut's first temple in Farmington. If all goes as planned, the church may resemble another well-known Farmington landmark that's been around since 1772: the First Church of Christ Congregational Church. A current office building on the property, which was once the Whitman Restaurant, along with some houses, will be razed.

"This is a facility that will be just stellar," Fishman said. "It will be there for decades. The Mormons build unbelievable buildings. It's an opportunity for the state let alone Farmington."

The Farmington Valley is home to a key figure in Mormon history. Wilford Woodruff was the fourth president of the Latter-Day Saints. In fact, a memorial honoring him stands in Avon, his home, which at the time was then present day Farmington. Fishman won't disclose the price the LDS is paying, but believes this will be an important landmark for the Farmington Community.

Official plans for the project still have not been released, and it must get approval from the town. The earliest construction could begin would be sometime this summer.