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.
The End of the Social Safety Net
A new report from the Human Rights Council of the United Nations chastises the United States for allowing so many Americans to live in poverty.
Japan Targeting 2020 Olympics for a Driverless Car System
Japan prioritizes technological advancement to grow its economy.
Boston to Launch New Downtown Plan
The Boston Planning & Development Agency will hire consultants to craft a vision for its rapidly changing downtown.
Don't Forget the Green Benefits of Accessory Dwelling Units
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) don't just help mitigate housing supply and affordability issues, they also offer significant sustainability benefits.
MARTA Could Make the Atlanta Streetcar Free Again
They say if you love something, you should set it free.