$1500 would probably get you one of the fancier bikes they have marketed as commuters - like the Novara Gotham (
http://www.rei.com/product/825377/no...tham-bike-2013), which has a belt drive, NuVinci hub (a CVT, no discrete gears), disc brakes, fenders, a rack - basically the ultimate commuter. Heavy, but you can ride in any weather.
Or, if you want something more sporty, as mentioned before, cyclocross bikes are a good choice.