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.
Colorado River Deal Fails—Feds Step In
California and Arizona couldn't come to terms on a drought contingency plan for the Colorado River, compelling the Department of the Interior to act.
Foxconn Changes its Mind (Again)
Foxconn has reversed course, reinstating plans to build a manufacturing plant in Wisconsin after casting doubt on the idea earlier this week.
Video: The Densest Place in the United States
Visit the notoriously dense suburb of Friendship Village, Maryland.
Friday Funny: The Onion Brings Climate Change Close to Home
The Onion's satirical news skills are put to use in canvassing public opinion about climate change.
Accessory Dwelling Unit Legislation Proposed in Washington Sets a New Standard
If it approves HB 1797, Washington will pace the rest of the nation (even California and Oregon) on reforming zoning to allow more accessory dwelling units.