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.
A New Protected Bike Lane in the Bronx
The new protected, two-way bike lane on Broadway adjacent to Van Cortlandt Park could induce envy.
Study Critiques the Fiscal and Racial Consequences of Capping Property Taxes
A new report by the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities finds major flaws with property taxes in several states, and proposes a solution that could mitigate the least desirable consequences of limits to property tax increases.
City Planning Criticism at a Critical Point in Minneapolis History
A columnist presents criticisms and recommendations for both sides of the density debate as Minneapolis considers a new comprehensive plan.
Wanted: A Language to Reflect the Diversity of Suburbia
The suburb/city distinction is too general and prone to exceptions.
New York City Council Proposes Cap on Number of Ride-Hailing Vehicles
To support the taxi industry and reduce congestion, the New York City Council could cap the number of ride-hailing vehicles operating in the city. The cap could be a first major step toward a new era of transportation regulation.