The hardrock frame would add unnecessary weight to the type of riding he's looking at.

You can look at Hybrid models which would suit you very well. There's also a commuting bike from Kona called the Smoke.

www.trekbikes.com

www.specialized.com

www.konaworld.com

Go to those sites and choose either the bike path and road selection or the comfort/hybrid selection and browse the bikes that are in your price range.

Good luck