This is the fourth of 10 vignettes about the top local stories of the year, as chosen by the staff of The Day. To see all of the top stories of the year, visit www.theday.com/2016inreview. 

Preston — The Preston Redevelopment Agency and Mohegan tribal leaders announced in May that the tribe plans to purchase the entire 393-acre former Norwich Hospital in Preston for a development expected to total several hundred million dollars.

Mohegan Tribal Council Chairman Kevin Brown said the tribe has “conceptual plans” for the entire property, but details are not expected to be revealed until town officials and residents are presented with a purchase and sale agreement.

Brown described possible wide-ranging uses such as ancillary businesses associated with Electric Boat’s buildup, unique recreational facilities, including a synthetic ski slope and glamour camping, and an outdoor adventure park.

Residents quickly approved a memorandum of understanding, but as the approved six-month negotiating deadline of Nov. 19 approached, the PRA, Mohegan Tribal Council and Preston Board of Selectmen approved a 90-day extension to Feb. 19 to reach a purchase and sale agreement.

— Claire Bessette