New signs will welcome motorists at Tennessee’s borders.
Gov. Bill Lee and other state officials unveiled the new sign design in East Tennessee. The new signs are hoped to “enhance the scenic quality and visual experience along Tennessee’s major highways.”
This effort earned $5 million in Lee’s final budget as governor. The new signs make “a modern, welcoming, and visually compelling gateway for the millions of travelers who enter Tennessee each year.”
“Every day, thousands of people cross our state line for the first time — families on vacation, new residents seeking opportunity, and visitors who are about to discover what makes Tennessee special,” Lee said in a statement. “These new welcome signs reflect the pride we have in our home and Tennessee’s volunteer spirit that says ‘we’re glad you’re here.’”
Here’s how state leaders described the new design:
“Inspired by the bold, nostalgic style of vintage postcards, the new signs feature a richly illustrated mural scene that feels both timeless and fresh. The artwork incorporates iconic Tennessee elements — mountains, rivers, wildlife, and layered geographic color palettes. The signs have a clean, confident look that stands out at 70 miles per hour.”
The new signs will go up at 16 interstate entry points across the state in the coming months. They will replace the old signs, which have been up since 1995.