A small town in Rockingham County has its sights set on becoming a big player in clean coal research.

Elkton officials have sent Gov. Timothy Kaine a proposal for a research facility to be located in town, aimed at finding ways to reduce emissions associated with coal-fired power plants.

The plan calls for state and federal funds of $100 million over five years, which officials say would be a major boost to the region's economy. The town has set aside 25 acres of public land for the project.

Kaine spokesman Gordon Hickey says the governor plans to respond to the proposal, but doesn't have an opinion yet.