The running lane is an attempt to recognize the special nature of the play on the BR at 1st base while balancing the game between the offense and the defense.
At any other base, the runner may run anywhere she wishes using any base path she chooses. Actually, the same is true of a BR as well. She just has the additional caveat that if she is not in the running lane, and she interferes with the fielder taking the throw, she is out. Those who have the notion of "bad runner, bad, bad runner" merely because she had the temerity to choose her own base path need to get over it.
The defense still has to make the play. It is part of the offense's job to prevent the defense from initiating a play. Otherwise, a home run would be interference. If the play is never initiated, there is no interference with it. My only problem with your final paragraph, WMB, is the part of the sentences that says
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that action prevents the defenders from making a play
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and my issue is what is meant by
The defense does have to actually attempt a play here. Merely discouraging the fielder from even attempting a throw by choosing a base path is not interference, in my judgment.
A runner merely being hit in the back with a thrown ball is not interference anywhere on the playing field. Anywhere. Including in the final 30 feet to 1st base. There must be a viable play at 1B.
Speaking my understanding of ASA in the above. NFHS has a different view.