Some alternatives that may or may not work for you are:
- Change to Schwalbe Big Apple tires. They are designed for ride comfort with low rolling resistance
- Consider a Birdy folding bike. They have full suspension designed for road use and its easy to change the stiffness to suit your preference. They are very agile, surprisingly quick, very comfortable and lighter than most commuter bikes. The ability to fold it up to put it in your car, get on public transport or take it into a building may also be a plus. You can get the basic models for $800 - $850 new and a little less if you find one second hand.

David