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.
Maine DOT Spars With Regional Transportation Planners
Transportation planners in Bangor, Maine are accusing state officials of holding regional transportation projects hostage to force the construction of a controversial connector project.
Friday Funny: The Urban Life of Ducks and Raccoons
A pair of very different stories offers insight into the urban lives of animals.

Book Review: From Steel to Slots
Chloe E. Taft explores the transition of Bethlehem, Pa., from Rust Belt company town to gambling mecca.
Seattle's New Light Rail Line Proving Good for Business
Since a March opening greeted with fanfare for its on-time and under budget delivery, local business are crediting the new light rail line connecting Downtown Seattle to Capitol Hill with big sales bumps.
Klamath River Dam Removal Moves Ahead Without Congressional Approval
A lack of Congressional approval almost killed a controversial dam removal project on the Klamath River in Oregon and California. The states and the Interior Department have found a way to proceed.