A major milestone has been reached on the Brougham Street upgrade, with a new cycling and pedestrian bridge lifted into place overnight.

Part of State Highway 76, Brougham Street, was closed between the Barrington Street off ramp and Selwyn Street so crews could safely install the new bridge section.

The 37 metre bridge truss was lifted into place using two large cranes, with the closure needed to keep vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians away from the worksite during the operation.

The bridge is a key part of the NZTA Brougham Street upgrade and will provide a safer crossing for people walking, biking or scooting across the busy highway.

Once finished, it will create a direct connection to nearby schools, workplaces and residential areas without people needing to cross live traffic.

The bridge is expected to be fully completed and open to the public by November.

NZTA has thanked residents and motorists for their patience while the overnight work was carried out.