Tennessee unveils new roadside welcome sign

• Officials wanted a design that was "more visually inviting," per a TDOT statement.

Zoom in: The new image, which was inspired by vintage postcard designs, emphasizes the rolling green hills that mark much of the state. It features a background of rivers, lush forests and a craggy mountainside.

• The Tennessee State Capitol sits at the center.

Follow the money: The sign upgrades are part of a $5 million effort to promote the state's natural beauty along major travel corridors.

What he's saying: "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."

What's next: The first sign was posted at a welcome center off Interstate 26 in Unicoi County. TDOT will install new roadside signs at 16 interstate entry points over the coming months.