The Oakland Raiders connection to the city of Alameda began in 1969 when ground was broken on a new practice facility located on Bay Farm Island. The team officially moved into the facility during the 1970 season and practiced there through the 1982 season, during the team's first season in Los Angeles.

During the 1970's and early 1980's many Raiders players made Alameda home and were a part of the local community. Legend has it that a few well known players were known to frequent local watering holes around town from time to time. The laundromat located on the corner of Park Street and San Jose Avenue is owned by former Raiders player Art Thoms.