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.
Obama Presidential Center Wins Key City Council Approval
The Obama Presidential Center is still controversial, but it has also taken a key first step in the approvals process.
Breaking News: $19 Billion MTA Repair Program Proposed
A sweeping new subway improvement plan is on the table in New York City. The "Fast Forward" plan will modernize the subway's signal system, improve wheelchair accessibility, and "restructure the inner workings of the department."
Details Emerging About the Big Pedestrian Bridge Proposed for Arlington County, Virginia
A proposal first revealed in November 2017 has already undergone a substantial amount of planning.
Michigan to Provide $618 Million in Tax Incentives to Four Dan Gilbert Projects
Dan Gilbert is investing over $2 billion in four projects in downtown Detroit. The state is matching that ambition with $618 million of its own.
Survey Examines the Differences and Commonalities Between Urban and Rural Communities
A big new study by the Pew Research Center examines the ties that bind, and the differences that threaten to tear us apart.