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.
Long Commutes Pose Additional Risks for Students in New York City
A recent study shows significant variation in commute times for students depending on where they live in New York City. The concern with the findings is that longer commute times have greater impacts on students already facing other obstacles.
Life as a 'Hipster Homesteader' in Cincinnati
A writer examines what it's like to live in the suburbs and work in the city of Cincinnati—to "exist in the physical and social margins" yet still play an active role in shaping the city's identity.
The New Retirement Community Paradigm
After postponing home purchases during the recession, people over the age of 55 have been the first group to return to the home buying market.
Minneapolis and New York City Top 2014 ParkScore Ratings
The third annual rating of cities ranks the access, size, and spending of parks in the 60 largest cities in the country.
Cities and Corporations Learn to Cooperate
Large companies are choosing cities rather than suburban office parks to locate. A recent article details how corporations can make the most of their urban environment.