A city intersection will be upgraded to simplify hook turns for cyclists, with hopes it will form part of a "superhighway for cyclists" in East Melbourne.

The state government announced the $1.6 million upgrade of separated cycling infrastructure for the corner of Albert and Lansdowne streets on Sunday morning.

An artist's impression of the protected cycling infrastructure planned for the Albert and Lansdowne streets intersection.

The crossroads will have a separated cycle path, kerb islands to protect cyclists as they wait to turn right and new line markings.

Traffic lights will also be updated to allow cyclists and pedestrians to go through the intersection first, before motorists.