Work on the first part of a $42 million upgrade for Constitution Avenue will begin over coming days, starting with the replacement of the avenue's old oak trees.
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About half of the existing 250 oak trees will be removed along Constitution Avenue and 200 new eight-metre high established oaks planted in their place.
In addition, 50 new crepe myrtles will be planted along the southern edge of the avenue.
Roads ACT director Tony Gill said the old trees were in a poor condition and would be replaced in stages throughout the project, starting near Vernon Circle and moving towards Anzac Parade.
''The tree replacement program ... will enhance the character and visual amenity of the avenue,'' he said.
He said the new trees were the first part of a larger upgrade for Constitution Avenue, funded by a $42 million Centenary gift from the federal government to the ACT.
Mr Gill said that once completed, Constitution Avenue would be ''shared public space for cars, cyclists and pedestrians alike to enjoy''.
''A segregated cycle lane, a dedicated bus lane, bus priority at intersections and wide pedestrian zones will help promote sustainable transport along the avenue,'' he said.
''The final design plans also allow for the integration of light rail in the future.''
