Purpose: This paper investigates the role of project ownership (maitrised’ouvrage) in strengthening urban coherence in the medium-sized Algerian city of Ain Beida. The study seeks to understand how demographic and spatial growth, institutional frameworks, and stakeholder perceptions shape the effectiveness of project ownership in fostering sustainable and equitable urban development. Design/Methodology/Approach: A mixed-methods approach was employed. Historical demographic and spatial data (1954–2023) were analyzed alongside documentary sources such as master plans (PDAU) and land-use plans (POS). In addition, five structured survey questionnaires were administered to 250 respondents, including municipal staff, contractors, civil society representatives, and citizens. Data analysis combined descriptive statistics with thematic analysis of qualitative insights. Findings: The findings reveal three main dynamics. First, Ain Beida’s population grew nearly six fold since 1954, creating pressure on infrastructure and facilities. Second, project ownership is fragmented among municipalities, wilaya authorities, and central ministries, leading to bureaucratic delays, overlapping responsibilities, and financial dependency. Third, survey results highlight weak citizen participation and uneven access to public facilities, especially in peripheral neighbour hoods. Collectively, these dynamics undermine urban coherence and erode citizen trust in local governance. Research Limitations/Implications: As a single case study, results are not fully generalizable to all Algerian cities. Some archival records were incomplete, and representation from informal settlements was limited. However, the findings offer valuable insights for medium-sized urban centres in developing countries facing similar governance challenges. Practical Implications: The research highlights the need to clarify institutional roles, strengthen municipal technical capacity, and secure diversified funding sources. It also recommends institutionalizing citizen participation mechanisms and adopting digital tools such as GIS for monitoring urban projects. These measures would enhance project ownership as a lever for coherent development. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by examining project ownership in the context of a rapidly urbanizing medium-sized Algerian city, where institutional fragmentation and social inequalities are particularly pronounced. It reframes project ownership as a governance instrument that, if reformed, can promote spatial balance, inclusiveness, and sustainability.