reducing width of inner ribs on panel

[chris mc bride]

Ive been looking at idea of reducing the width of the body ribs in rear of my 69 panel. Seems these could be lot narrower and still do same job. Plus would make the custom touches I have planned for inside easier to workout.
Wondering if anyone has done this or if anyone has reason this would cause a problem with structual integrity. I plan to cut them down and weld new strip back. This should make the almost as strong.