Something that might help you find a better route is looking for a bike club and/or lbs with organized rides.

Even if it doesn't fit into your schedule to ride with the group, you can obtain a copy of the route map. The routes that are chosen by the groups typically take into consideration the traffic, road quality, etc with cycling in mind.

One of our local bike clubs I belong to has their maps posted on line in their web site. Before I ever began riding with the group, I used those maps to help find a more suitable route.

As posted, you may hafta drive somewhere to start your route. Many group rides start from local schools where the parking lot is free in the evening with class not in session to park.