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.
Feds to Investigate Transit Project Costs
The Government Accountability Office will investigate why it costs so much more to build transit in the United States than anywhere else in the world. Perhaps this could be the change of systematic change.
2018 Planning Excellence Awards Announced
The APA revealed their annual recognition of the best of the best for planners and planning in 2018.
Governor Cuomo Wants Broad Powers to Redevelop Around Penn Station
The idea is still extremely speculative, but reports are that Governor Cuomo is pushing for legislation that would enable broad powers for the state to redevelop around Penn Station in New York City.
Waymo Wants to Provide a 'Self-Driving Vehicle Tailored to Every Trip' (So Why Not Buses?)
Automated vehicle tech frontrunner Waymo is teaming up with Jaguar to offer a luxury self-driving vehicle for "car lovers." Why not partner with bus manufacturers to offer self-driving buses for city lovers?
Pressing Pause on 'Rent Bidding' Apps
Several new apps allow landlords to place available units out to bid. The city of Seattle is concerned the apps might exacerbate prices in an already expensive rental market.