Address by Honorable Franklin K. Lane, Secretary of the Interior at Conference of Regional Chairmen of the Highways Transport Committee Council of National Defense

Address by Honorable Franklin K. Lane, Secretary of the Interior at Conference of Regional Chairmen of the Highways Transport Committee Council of National Defense is a significant historical document capturing a pivotal moment in American infrastructure and wartime policy. Delivered during World War I, this address reflects Secretary Lane’s vision and leadership as he speaks to the assembled regional chairmen responsible for the nation’s highways and transportation systems. Lane emphasizes the critical role of efficient transportation in national defense, economic stability, and the mobilization of resources for the war effort. He discusses the challenges and opportunities facing the United States in developing a cohesive and modern highway system, highlighting the importance of cooperation between federal, state, and local authorities. The speech is both a call to action and a blueprint for future progress, urging innovation, unity, and public service. Lane’s eloquence and foresight are evident as he addresses issues of logistics, infrastructure investment, and the broader implications for American society. This book offers readers a window into early 20th-century policy-making, the intersection of transportation and national security, and the enduring impact of Lane’s advocacy for public works and civic responsibility.