Dismantled in September 2009 to make way for the mall's expansion, the distinctive pedestrian bridge over Joynton Smith Drive, had connected the car park on Lathlain Street to Westfield Belconnen for foot traffic from the mid-1970s .

Minister for Territory and Municipal Services Shane Rattenbury said the $1.8 million project was replacing the shared path at Molonglo Reach, which was damaged by floods in March 2012.

''The former 'red bridge' has been painted grey to blend into the landscaping and has been dismantled into six sections to be progressively installed over the next three weeks,'' Mr Rattenbury said.

''The bridge has been separated into sections to help minimise disruptions to traffic on Morshead Drive during the installation phase.''

He said work to repair the embankment adjacent to the former shared path, as well as to stabilise the retaining wall, was complete.

''The new abutments and piers for the bridge have also already been installed in preparation for the bridge deck.''

Mr Rattenbury said work to build the new pedestrian bridge has been carefully planned to ensure it did not impact on the recreational use of the lake, as well as to protect the river habitat.

''During construction, particular care has been taken to ensure the local flora and fauna species have been protected. This included a number of burrows which are home to a group of platypuses.''

The ''new'' bridge will be completed by 2014 and was funded by ACT government insurance.