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.
Economic Development: Do People or Places Come First?
Aaron Renn writes an argument against economic development investments in the form of stadiums, casinos and convention centers—favored by so many local governments.
The Dawn of the Electric Car
The electric car is poised to have its moment. In fact, the 2020s could be the decade of the electric car.
Boston City Hall Plaza Overhaul Moves Forward
Boston has a plan to transform City Hall Plaza from a neglected opportunity into a year-round entertainment venue.
Los Angeles Metro and Lyft Considering a Data Sharing Partnership
Metro, the transit agency for Los Angeles County, could be the first to peak under the hood at trip data generated by Lyft.
Intercity Bus Systems Keep a Foothold in Modern Times
Intercity buses might seem "Old World," but ridership is growing on intercity bus systems, and Greyhound is making big investments to stay ahead of the quickly moving transportation curve.