Abstract: Cross nodes of utility tunnels, which generally exist in an underground utility tunnel system, are the weak parts of the whole underground utility tunnel system, due to the the large difference of lateral displacement stiffness between the tunnel structures at two main directions. The distribution of seismic internal forces at cross nodes is complex. A longitudinal seismic design model of cross underground utility tunnels based on shell-spring model was established in this study. Shell element was used to simulate the utility tunnel, while multiple sets of nonlinear spring elements arranged along the circumferential direction of joints were employed to simulate the mechanical behavior of prefabricated joints. Taking the T-type utility tunnel as an example, the seismic response analysis was conducted to determine the most unfavorable mode of internal force as well as the deformation of T-type utility tunnel. In addition, the results were compared with the that of the traditional beam-spring model. The research indicates that the shell-spring model can reflect the construction of prefabricated joints as well as the significant local deformation at the cross nodes under seismic action, which means the model is suitable for the longitudinal seismic design of underground utility tunnels with cross nodes, especially for the utility tunnels with common asymmetric section. Although, the traditional beam-spring model can evaluate the joint deformation of cross nodes, the internal force response is significantly underestimated. The relevant modeling methods as well as analytical methods may be a crucial for the seismic design of underground structures with cross nodes.