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 Call to Action After Detroit Suburbs Kill Regional Transportation Plan
A $4.7 billion regional transportation plan died at the hands of suburban interests around Detroit last week. An op-ed describes the action as the same kind of racial disharmony that defined the mid- and late-20 century.
Trump Announces $500 Billion-Plus Infrastructure Plan
The Republican nominee for president announced the early sketches of a sweeping infrastructure investment program—touted as at least doubling the program proposed by the Clinton campaign.
One of San Francisco's Toniest High Rises Has a Sinking Feeling
Home to some of the city's most famous athletes and industry chiefs, the Millennium Tower could soon be home to a protracted and expensive legal battle.
Bike and Pedestrian Advocates Rejoice: 'Contributory Negligence' on its Way Out in D.C.
A new law with the support of the mayor and an initial approval by the D.C. council will make it easier for bicyclists and pedestrians to collect insurance after a crash with a motor vehicle.
Kansas City Streetcar Drawing Crowds in First Three Months
With weekend riders leading the way, the Kansas City Streetcar is surpassing ridership expectations three months into its existence.