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.
Single-Family Zoning Reform Only a Start
Opinion: To undo the consequences (intended or not) of a built environment dominated by single-family zoning, more than just a few three-plexes and accessory dwelling units will be required.
Controversial Zoning Changes Clear the Way for New Pittsburgh Subdistrict
The Pittsburgh City Council gave the green light to a zoning amendment that could eventually produce 1,000 apartment units planned for the neighborhood of Oakland.
Southside Trail Takes Atlanta's Beltline to the Next Level
Doubters questioned whether Atlanta had the political will to bring the Beltline to the Southside. The city overcame those doubts last week.
Intercity High-Speed Rail Outlasts Italy's National Airline
European countries are committing to making intercity rail the preferable option compared to domestic and intra-continental flights. The shift seems to be working in Italy.
Development Synergy Pushing Buildings to Record Heights in Nashville
A development proposed for a site adjacent to the buzzy Nashville Yards will set a new record height for the city of Nashville.