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 Skyline-Changing Pair of Towers Proposed in Portland
A "once-in-a-generation" redevelopment plan, called for in Portland's Central City 2035 Plan, has inspired big thinking from architects and planners.
A Small Zoning Change With a Big Effect
The city of Lexington, Kentucky recently amended its B-6P zone, which regulates "Planned Shopping Centers."
Reevaluating Rent Control
Cities and researchers are reconsidering the effects of the controversial housing policy known as rent control.
Minneapolis Considering Inclusionary Housing Again
Minneapolis City Council President Lisa Bender thinks the political calculus has changed for inclusionary zoning—but some critics think inclusionary zoning will be too little too late to make a difference for the city's affordable housing stock.
California City Bans 'Distracted Walking'
It is illegal to operate a mobile phone to talk, text or listen to music while crossing the street in Montclair, California