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.

Study: Crime Concerns Cause Transit's Gender Gap
A new study of transit use in Los Angeles finds safety concerns are keeping women off of public transit.

Property Rights Battle Expected Along Trump's Border Wall
Property acquisition in Texas won't come easy.

A Compelling Case for Protected Bike Lanes
A pilot project of cycle tracks on several streets in Toronto produced almost shockingly positive results for all users of the street. At very little cost, the new bike infrastructure increased total street capacity and improved safety.

Understanding the 'Dark Store Theory' Costing Local Governments Millions in Property Tax
The New York Times takes a deep dive into the "dark store theory" costing local municipalities millions, and potentially more, in property tax revenues all over the country.

Congestion Pricing Takes Major Step Forward in New York City
Suddenly, after years of inaction, momentum is building for congestion pricing in New York City.