If I was in the market for a new commuter the Volpe and Cross Check would be at the top of my list.
Actually, the Cross Check would probably be what I would go with for a little more rough road capability, larger rubber, and a greater selection of studded tires that would fit for winter riding.
I'd buy the frame and transfer my current set up over and then change stuff here and there as things wore out.
That's where Surlys really shine. You can get just about anything to work on them, so; you are basically out the price of the frame depending on what you decide to change to start.