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.
Sunday's Deadly Tornadoes a Reminder of the Risks of Mobile Homes
The effects of tornadoes like those that touched down in South Georgia on Sunday are exacerbated in areas where many residents live in mobile homes.
Study: Density Better Than Retrofits for Emissions
Just because a study says density is more effective than energy system retrofits in reducing emissions, doesn't mean that we have to settle for just one.
Legal Battle Over Wildlife Refuges in Northern California and Southern Oregon
A lawsuit marks the latest twist in an ongoing legal battle over what conservationists consider one of the most important waterfowl sanctuaries in the country.
Design Guidelines for the New York City Housing Authority
An article notes the signs of change at the New York City Housing Authority, which has adopted its first-ever design guidelines in a renewed effort to deliver safe and healthy homes to residents.
New Neighborhood Plan in San Francisco Pitches the Public Benefits of Density
Central SoMa ("South of Market") in San Francisco will soon have a new neighborhood plan. Planners hope zoning changes will reap rewards in property values and public benefits.