The need for a rack and panniers with a more durable build immediately takes most "racing" specific bikes out of contention, because racing frames lack the eyelets to accommodate the rack, and the wheels are not built to take heavy loads.
The next speediest option would be a cyclocross bike, so the Tricross is certainly a good option.

If your ride is predominantly flat, a singlespeed cyclocross bike like http://www.bianchiusa.com/09-bicycle...-jose-pro.html would do the trick and be almost maintenance free. Singlespeeds will not offer the same top speed as geared bikes, but are fun and simple.

If you have the cash, this would be a great commuter with a 3-speed hub and belt drive http://www.spotbikes.com/bikes/highline , but it may be more upright than you would like.

Other options:

Cyclocross: http://www.bianchiusa.com/09-bicycle...-d2-volpe.html
Cyclocross: http://www.surlybikes.com/crosscheck_comp.html
Touring road bike: http://www.surlybikes.com/lht_comp.html
Road bike inspired commuter: http://www.salsacycles.com/casseroll08.html
Cyclocross with disc brakes: http://www.salsacycles.com/laCruzComp08.html

For load capacity, the wheel build is critical. All of the bikes above (except the bianchi) are available as a frame/fork, which you can build as you need.
A very flexible build is a 1x9 or 1x10 setup (single chainring up front, 9 or 10 cogs in back)

Happy bike hunting!