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.

Toronto Transit Plans Take First Step Forward
The first phase of Toronto's 15-tear transit plan took a crucial step forward this week.

Review of D.C.'s 2005 Comprehensive Plan: Trying to Be All Things to All People
A look back at Washington, D.C.'s most recent Comprehensive Plan reveals lessons for how the city should plan for the future next time it undertakes a comprehensive planning process.
Arguing the Merits of Protected Bike Lanes in Denver
The Denver Business Journal editor spoke out in opposition to a proposal to add bike lanes to Broadway in Denver. Streetsblog responded.

Friday Funny: Picnic Basket Building for Sale
Is Yogi the Bear in the market for a commercial property?

Friday Eye Candy: A World Tour of Creative Crosswalks
Take a look at these creative crosswalks and add your own examples.