Dear County of Kauai, Mayor Bernard Carvalho, We would like to ask that the proposed route of the Ke Ala Hele Makalae (Multi use bike path), be altered to run mauka of Kuhio Highway either in front of or behind of the Coco Palms property. Further, by allowing the path to run west of the highway would result in better and safer access to the businesses along Wailua River and shops that are sure to materialize as the Coco Palms property is developed. This change will preserve the last beach on the east side with easy access for recreation activities and cultural practices. This will also preserve Wailua beach view plane and eliminate further distraction to vehicle operators who daily check the ocean conditions from Kuhio highway. Allowing this path to be built on the vegetation line that buffers and filters run off water to Wailua beach from Kuhio highway will allow petroleum and chemical contaminants from this high traffic corridor to enter the delicate marine environment of Wailua Bay during heavy rains. This increase in pollution will have a very negative impact on the fragile marine environment so vital to our tourist industry, and culture. This vegetation line is the home of many salt tolerant plants that is vital to Wailua accretion cycle and protects Wailua beach from erosion. Many of these plants are harvested and used for medicinal and cultural practices today. Most importantly, it would protect the last remaining area of what was once a very large and sacred burial site of the Kupuna Iwi O Wailua, who were possibly the first Alii's with origins to Tahiti. Portions of this burial site have been desecrated for the development of Kuhio Highway and the Coco Palms resort. We ask that this area be preserved and an Ahu be built in honor and respect. Wailua Beach was once the seat for native Hawaiian spirituality. Its rich historical significance and natural, untamed beauty, makes it one of the wonders of Kauai our visitors and residents alike can enjoy. We feel that these points merit consideration, and hope that you will re think the current route that the County of Kauai has proposed for Wailua Beach. Sincerely, Sophronia N. Josselin Friends of Wailua Beach

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