This was the only year for this separate chamber for fresh air to enter the top side of engine. This separate chamber is to be bonded to under side of hood. Fresh air for engine then enters from the cowl area, then through this chamber area, and then to the engine. Fiberglass bonding material is used to install to hood.
Learn more from the following Mid America Motorworks Knowledge Library article:
Corvette Body Components from Fiberglass to Resin Transfer Molding