James Brasuell, AICP is the former editorial director of Planetizen and is now a senior public affairs specialist at the Southern California Association of Governments. James managed all editorial content and direction for Planetizen from 2014 to 2023, and was promoted from manging editor to editorial director in 2021. After a first career as a class five white water river guide in Trinity County in Northern California, James started his career in Los Angeles as a volunteer at a risk reduction center in Skid Row. Prior to joining Planetizen, James worked at the Cal Poly Pomona College of Environmental Design, as an editor at Curbed LA, as editor of The Planning Report, and as a freelance contributor for The Architect’s Newspaper, the Urban Land Institute – Los Angeles Chapter, FORM, KCET, and the California Planning & Development Report.
Brooklyn-Queens Connector Streetcar Plans Released
Plans for the Brooklyn-Queens Connector, otherwise known as the BQX, are still on the table, despite reports of the project's demise.
Classic Chicago Residential Architecture Disappearing Quickly
A recent report by the DePaul University Institute for Housing Studies finds the number of two-flats, three-flats, and four-flats in quick decline among the residential building stock of Chicago.
There's No 'Smart City' Without Smart Payment Technology
Thinking beyond the MetroCard.
Alamo Plaza Revitalization Takes Small, Controversial Step Forward
Revitalization plans for the Alamo Plaza are moving forward, controversially, in San Antonio. The hope is to have investments complete by the 300th anniversary of the Alamo in 2024.
Visions of a Massive New Entertainment District in St. Louis
City officials have a new ambition for a corner of St. Louis once considered for an NFL stadium and an MLS stadium. Now the future site of an NHL practice facility, the surrounding area could become an entertainment district.