69 Cuda Heat / AC fresh air intake alternative?

If you know where the water and debris is supposed to drain at the end of the cowl, that would be my first effort. It is behind the splash shield so it wouldn't get too much engine bay gasses. I'm not sure how much space is available there without modifying the sheet metal. Custom tubing from OEM intake holes over through the end of the cowl and then straight down 4 inches or so. Some sort of screen on the lower end to keep critters out.
Since we're on this topic... I never wanted to completely delete the cowl opening on my fish. I just want to reduce its size to 2 smaller openings in line with the hood medallions. Later model Roadrunners and the like had only 2 smaller openings so I know this could work.
I dream of cabin air filters in the cowl too.