I don't see why you can't commute on the Cannondale with those pedals.
I am not familiar with those particular pedals, but I commute on a road bike with clipless road pedals all the time (Shimano). I am very conscious of unclipping my foot whenever i might have to stop, as its really easy if I don't move the foot to click back in. My other bike has mountain SPDs which seem much easier for commuting.
Can you adjust the tension on you pedals to make it easier to get in and out? If so that may help as you get use to it. Can you try the commute on it at off hours the first time? If needed, spend some more time just getting used to it before you try commuting on it.