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.
Maryland's Floods a Terrible Tragedy, and a Sign of More to Come
The sprawling, asphalt communities of U.S. cities, built as a result of mid-20th century planning, will meet terrible consequences during the extreme weather events of climate change.
Some Fire Departments Are Supporting Change for the Sake of Safer Streets
A few pioneering fire departments are making room for safety (while demanding less space) on city streets.
Seattle's Popular Capitol Hill Neighborhood Getting New Design Guidelines
The new guidelines will allow for new design decisions in a neighborhood undergoing rapid change.
Beyond Headways: 5 Problems Hobbling Public Transit Systems
As more attention is paid to the struggles of U.S. public transit systems, some factors are getting less attention than others.
Pittsburgh to Oakland BRT Makes Adjustments, Keeps Moving Forward
The Port Authority of Allegheny County is expected to submit a proposal for a $199.5 million electric bus rapid transit system for federal funding.