For years the crossing the Key Bridge northbound had been a relatively understated affair -- at no point were you welcomed to the District, as you would be coming into the city from a number of other directions. (Or as you're welcomed to Virginia crossing southbound.) 

The sign's always been there, but it either remained blank or served as a canvas for just about anyone with spray paint and an idea. During my first years in the city, I fondly recall that an image of a bomber was painted on the sign, under which was written, "Democracy We Deliver." (Back in the 

1960s, reports the Post, it was actually a proper welcome sign.)

But the sign has finally come alive this week, welcoming drivers into the District. 

The change came at the behest of Councilmember Jack Evans (D-Ward 2), who reported in his monthly newsletter that he had worked with the D.C. Department of Transportation to brighten up the lonely sign once and for all:

After receiving several calls about the state of the "Welcome to DC" sign, Evans contacted the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) and a new custom sign was installed at the west end of the bridge, where it greets people as they enter the District from Virginia.

Sadly, this is the second time this year the sign has had to be replaced. Deface that sign, Virginians, and it'll be considered an act of war.