Within the IDA-KI project, a research bridge (openLAB) is being built and loaded up to the level of severe damage. This will be accompanied by extensive measurements and investigations, thus creating a unique database for the validation of damage detection and evaluation methods under real environmental conditions using a large-scale model. This article presents the project idea, the research bridge currently under construction, and the monitoring system installed at the bridge. The methods implemented for automated data analysis and fault detection in the monitoring data are presented and validated through load tests in the openLAB. First measurements recorded during the production process of the precast girders of the research bridge underline the potential of distributed fiber optic sensors for a monitoring from day one. The information gained from the construction and operation of the bridge is provided in a digital model. The conceptualization of the so-called “as maintained“ model and the data management will be presented.