Book excerpt: This synthesis report will be of interest to geotechnical, structural, and bridge engineers, especially those involved in the development and implementation of the geotechnical aspects of the AASHTO Bridge Code. The synthesis documents a review of geotechnical related LRFD specifications and their development worldwide to compare them with the current AASHTO LRFD Bridge Code. Design procedures for foundations, earth retaining structures, and culverts are summarized and compared with the methods specified by the AASHTO code. This TRB report provides information designed to assist engineers in implementing the geotechnical features of LRFD methods. Information for the synthesis was collected by surveying U.S. and Canadian transportation agencies and by conducting a literature search using domestic and international sources. Interviews were also conducted with selected international experts. The limited available experience in the United States and information from international practice are discussed to understand the problems that have arisen in order that solutions may be found. Based on the studies reported here, suggestions for improving the code are identified.