Herein, the existing structural design criteria for highway bridge columns with hollow bars were analyzed. Expanding upon previous research focused on the performance analysis of the columns under compressive loads, load– displacement curves were evaluated and crack analysis was performed under cyclic transverse loads. A three-dimensional nonlinear finite-element structural analysis compared the structural performance of existing steel bars, same-reinforced hollow bars, and reduced hollow bars in detail. Results indicated that with regard to elastic or initial crack behavior, the existing steel bars can be replaced by the other bars. Future research should delve into inelastic behavior and strategies to ensure seismic performance.