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Mitigation Measure: If the Wailuku Drive Closure Alternative is selected, the . County of Hawaii will cooperate among its various agencies to seek replacement of the parking spaces lost as a result of the action. The County will consult with the Hilo Downtown Improvement Association, 3.3.2 Archaeolo2y and Historic Sites Environmental Setting The Wailuku River has figured in many historical events, legends and sayings in Hawaii. The name means "water of destruction" (Pukui et al 1974), which would appear to refer not only to the mighty torrents of water which flood through the channel after heavy rains in the uplands but also the many battles and conflicts that the banks have witnessed. Mary Kawena Pukui's `Olelo No `eau, which records traditional Hawaiian sayings, has several references to the Wailuku. One of the most poetic is Ua not i ke ao ua `ole - "asked of a rainless cloud" - recalling when the goddess Hi`iaka was refused her request of two surly lizards gods to permit her and her friends to cross the Wailuku River, leading to a fierce battle. The banks of the Wailuku were also important throughout the development of the city of Hilo. In the 19th and early 20th century, the location was used for many industrial and warehousing purposes, including a tannery very near the project site. Little physical evidence of this history is now visible. Portions of several cement foundations near the Hilo Armory are perhaps associated with some early 20th century industry. Impacts and Mitigation Measures The project site was inspected by staff with the State Historic Preservation Division. In a letter of 29 May 1998 (see Appendix 1), they state that: "Based on the site inspection, we believe that because of the limited excavation potential and previous disturbance, the proposed park project will have "no effect" on significant historic sites." The Hawaii County Department of Parks and Recreation anticipates development of plaques and signage to help interpret the historic characteristics of the site. The quality of the site as a stop on cultural /historical walking tours of downtown Hilo would improve with development of a park. Mitigation Measure: If any artifacts, charcoal deposits, or human remains are discovered during brush clearing or other activities associated with the park, work will immediately cease and SHPD will be consulted to determine the appropriate mitigation. 15