Gary O. Marino, RailAmerica Chairman, President & CEO, announced the appointment of Thomas C. Owen as Senior Vice President Marketing and Sales - North American Rail Group. In this position, Mr. Owen will be responsible for the implementation of marketing strategies and direct sales efforts for the North America Rail Group. In addition, Mr. Owen will assist in the evaluation process in RailAmerica's acquisitions program.

"I am pleased to announce Tom's promotion to this position. Since joining RailAmerica in 2001, Tom has consistently generated innovative ideas and programs to increase sales and customer satisfaction on our railroads," said Mr. Marino. "Tom's railroad experience along with an impressive management background and strategic marketing skills will provide our sales and marketing team with a strong leader to drive growth and service."

Joe Conklin, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer said, "In addition to his exemplary leadership skills, Tom has taken a lead role in the creation and development of RailAmerica's technology-based solutions to broaden our sales and marketing initiatives. I am honored to announce his promotion within our North American Rail Group."

Mr. Owen joined RailAmerica in September 2001 from CSX Transportation and its predecessor railroads where he served for 16 years. Mr. Owen held a variety of positions, including Assistant Vice President, Sales & Marketing-Agricultural Products. Tom was also CSXT's first participant to a one year international Executive Exchange Program where he served as the Commercial Manager for British Steel in Wales, U.K.

Mr. Owen received his B.S. degree in Industrial Management from the Georgia Institute of Technology and his M.B.A. degree from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University.