Abstract:Based on the force characteristics of structural system, comparative analysis between cable stayed bridge, suspension bridge and other two-tower three-span cable supported bridges is carried out. Compared with tunnel the reasonable selection of structural system within different spans is discussed. Finally the mechanics and economic performances of multi-span cable supported bridge are compared. For two-tower three-span cable supported bridges the analysis indicates that cable stayed bridge should be adopted within 1100m main span preferentially. When span exceeds 1100m, suspension bridge is facing the competition from all the other cable supported bridges and tunnel. Suspension bridge can be adopted when the water depth of anchor, foundation and other factor are appropriate.