OMSI said Friday it would partner with the prominent Portland development firm Gerding Edlen to build out its vacant land holdings in the Central Eastside.

The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry last year finalized its master plan for its 18-acre site, 11 acres of which are up for redevelopment.

Gerding Edlen is known for developments throughout the central city, including the Pearl District's Brewery Blocks and several South Waterfront high-rises.

It's not clear when development might get underway, but OMSI spokesman John Farmer said it won't be this year, and likely not in 2019. The museum still has to finalize its agreement with Gerding Edlen and finalize its development plans.

The museum plans to own the developed properties itself, rather than selling parcels to Gerding Edlen or other private developers. But that could change, Farmer said.

In any case, the museum has said it hopes the development can help provide financial stability not afforded by grants, donations and ticket sales.

The plan calls for a mix of uses, including limited housing, offices, retail and restaurants.

Its plans haven't always sat well with neighbors in the onetime industrial district that's now home to hundreds of new apartments, trendy restaurants and offices for technology companies.

-- Elliot Njus

enjus@oregonian.com

503-294-5034

@enjus