ERWIN — Governor Bill Lee, the Tennessee Department of Transportation, and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development unveiled the first installation of a new "Welcome to Tennessee" signage program at the I-26 Unicoi County Welcome Center in Erwin on June 6, 2026.
Lee allocated $5 million in the 2025 budget for scenic corridor improvements. This project marks the first major redesign of Tennessee welcome signs since 1995. TDOT will install signs at 16 interstate entry points.
"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. 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.'" Lee said.
TDOT Commissioner Will Reid said, "These signs are more than just markers on the side of the road—they're a welcome mat to our home. We're grateful to the General Assembly for providing the funding needed to bring this project to life. Their support allowed us to create something that truly reflects the pride we have in Tennessee and the experience we want every visitor to feel the moment they arrive." TDTD Commissioner Mark Ezell said, "These new signs are a reminder to every traveler crossing the state line that they've arrived somewhere special. Every welcome is an opportunity to inspire visitors to stay longer, explore more communities and support local businesses across our state. From the moment travelers arrive, these signs help tell the story of why Tennessee Sounds Perfect."