Lighting, Light Fixtures, Ceiling and Exhaust Fans - Requesting some assistance with lighting install!!

I'm currently installing recessed lighting in my basement behind a tight drop ceiling. I've run 5 lights down one side of the room and started on the second side. I noticed the cans, if installed at the "balanced" position in the ceiling (centered in the drop ceiling panel, 15" x 24", and about 5 inches from the wall), will hit a wooden I-beam running parallel with the line of lights I'm installing. In order to have the lights look visibly correct, I'll have to cut into the I-beam every other ceiling panel. Is this alright to do? Any other recommendations?

The I beams are engineered I Joists. The flanges cannot be "cut", unless of course you don't have a problem with your house falling down.

I suggest you either figure out another layout or accept an asymetrical light pattern.

You are asking for trouble if you start notching beams. The importance of structural integrity comes before a nice lighting layout.