Its widely agreed that the success and popularity of Smarty Jones gave a huge boost to Pennsylvania racing and lead directly to the state goverment passing a Slots Bill in order to increase revenue at state racing tracks. In addition to making wagering from home possible, the track at the same time launched a local cable television show Live from Philadelphia Park so racing fans in the area could tune into the action.

Parx Racing was the first track in the country to accept wagering over the telephone, when it launched its Phonebet system in the late 80s. The turf, installed in the 1980s, is 7 frulongs with a 1 1/8 mile chute. The racing surface at Parx consists of a one-mile oval with 7 furlong and 1 1/4 mile chutes.