Portage la Prairie has a new high-tech crosswalk system at the intersection of Saskatchewan Avenue West and 7th Street West. Mayor Irvine Ferris explains the need.

"Over the years, we've had a lot of comments from both pedestrians' and drivers' concerns about the existing crosswalk," says Ferris. "So, this is a new solar-powered RRFB. That stands for Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacon."

He notes it has push-button activation, like other electronic crosswalk systems in town, but something more as well.

"This should enhance safety through user-activated and passive-detection activation," continues Ferris. "This popular crosswalk safety treatment utilizes alternating flashing patterns that command driver attention day and night."

The city hopes this will improve safety in that area of town, and it's the first of its kind in Portage.