No matter how you go you will have to cross 5 at some point... as it runs from the Mexican border to Canada, and in this case, runs between you and downtown.

You are close to Pershing, so I see why you chose it. Perhaps going up to Landis to Robinson to Park might suit you better... (Park was always a nice ride)

Or down 30th to B street. There are lots of options... go to google maps and see if something else suits you. (I believe B comes right in to downtown at City College... so it might be somewhat busy there depending on time of day)

I used to take 30th down to the Navy base way back in the day (over 20 years ago), jogging over to 32nd street just before it crossed 5... and it was mostly urban residential.

The on ramp situation at Pershing and 5 is somewhat hectic.

Good luck.