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Another top executive has departed RailAmerica Inc. since the short-line holding company was acquired by Fortress Investment Group L.L.C. in February.

Yesterday, Chief Operating Officer Joe Conklin retired. President and Chief Executive Officer John Giles will assume the COO responsibilities.

After joining RailTex in 1999 as vice president of field operations, Conklin became a senior VP of RailAmerica when the company acquired RailTex in April 2000. In 2003, he was promoted to executive VP and COO. Prior to RailTex, Conklin served BNSF Railway Co. and its predecessor railroads for 23 years.

“Conklin has made significant contributions to the company’s improving operations and safety record,” said Giles in a prepared statement.

In late February, former RailAmerica CEO Charles Swinburn retired and was succeeded by Giles, while President/Chief Administrative Officer Donald Redfearn and Chief Financial Officer Michael Howe stepped down.

RailAmerica owns and operates 42 regionals and short lines in the United States and Canada.