The new year promises some appealing new things for motorists across Bucks County and Pennsylvania, say state authorities. The first significant redesign of standard state license plates will take place this year in advance of the country’s 250th birthday in 2026. In addition, new “Welcome to Pennsylvania” highway entry signs on state borders like along I-295 in Bucks County will appear. The new design highlights Pennsylvania’s role in the birthplace of democracy as it readies for national celebratory activity, said Gov. Josh Shapiro. “With all eyes on Pennsylvania as we prepare to host our country’s 250th birthday in 2026, our new license plates and welcome signs will celebrate the best of what the Commonwealth has to offer and show the country why Pennsylvania is the great American getaway and the birthplace of American freedom,” he said in announcing the news. The redesign – replacing the 25-year-old blue, white and gold plates promoting the VisitPA.com website – is an all-white plate with blue numerals bearing the slogan “Let Freedom Ring” in red and an illustration of the Liberty Bell. The state Transportation Department said the current standard plate inventory will be used before the state fully transitions to the new design and issues it automatically. Those who want a new plate before that occurs can sign up to receive an email update when the new plates are ready to order in the spring. When they become available, an email will be sent explaining how one can be obtained from PennDOT. According to PennDOT’s website, the current standard plate replacement cost is $13. The first eight welcome signs recently were installed in Adams, Bucks, Erie, Fulton, Monroe, Potter, Susquehanna and Tioga counties, with another 29 to be installed in coming months across the state. Shapiro’s announcement comes after his recent launch of Pennsylvania’s Great American Getaway tourism brand, and at a time when Washington Crossing is preparing to mark the 250th with many events at the Bucks County historical site. “Pennsylvania is the birthplace of our democracy,” he said. “As Governor, I have been focusing real freedom across the Commonwealth. Our new license plates and welcome signs will celebrate the best of what the Commonwealth has to offer and show the country why Pennsylvania is the Great  American Getaway.”