I just bought a road bike and also live in very high traffic areas It is a PITA but I'll drive 6 miles to the local state park (lots of cyclist go here--pacelines galore) and ride there unitl I get more comfortable on the regular roads. I like the park because the road speed is only 35 mph and cars are used to the many cyclists that frequent the park.

I'm sure it will get old soon enough but, for now I am happy with this option. I also, commute to work on my touring bike to get extra miles in. I have to take some gravel paths to get there so, the road bike is not an option for that.

I like the idea of early morning riding since, the traffic is at lower level, at that time, where I live.