The NCHRP Web-Only Document 197 presents the findings of an experimental and analytical investigation exploring the failure modes of steel truss bridge gusset plated connections. This research was conducted based on a recommendation provided by the National Transportation Safety Board at the conclusion of the I-35W Bridge collapse investigation. In particular, they recommended that gusset plates be included in the load rating process and the data produced in this project provides the justification to support the resistance equations for the various failure modes. Primarily the research focused on buckling and shear failure modes of gusset plates, including the effects of section loss, multilayered plates, and edge stiffening. The project also presented a comprehensive review of past literature on the strength of hot-driven rivets. Resistance equations were defined and calibrated load factors are provided for each equation according to a load and resistance factor philosophy. Two-column draft specification language is provided for ready adoption into the American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO) LRFD Bridge Design Specifications and the AASHTO Manual for Bridge Evaluation.