The Albert Lea Police Department last week was awarded a new state-of-the-art radar unit to assist in traffic enforcement efforts.

The department received a Stalker DSR 2X radar unit during the July 13 Albert Lea City Council meeting, according to a news release. Albert Lea officers and others across the state are in the middle of a stepped-up speed enforcement through Sunday.

The unit is reportedly one of the most advanced and easiest-to-use police traffic radars, according to the release. It is made up of two independent radar units operating on a single, five-window, multi-color display.

“We are grateful for this award,” said Albert Lea Public Safety Director Dwaine Winkels.

He said it is a tool that will help make the community safer and will enhance officers’ efforts to identify automobiles driving at illegal and unsafe speeds.

The equipment was awarded to the city because of its commitment to the state’s Toward Zero Deaths traffic safety effort.

Albert Lea police Lt. Jeff Strom helps coordinate the Toward Zero Deaths enforcement effort.

He said the equipment will help people slow down and in turn save lives and reduce injuries.

Speed is one of the main contributing factors in crashes and particularly in severe crashes because speed means greater force and less time to react, the release stated.