you can also have your employeer get the city to put up share the road signs. I found out that they are in existance in the odd places (usually with no extra space) because of commuters and their employers. Our ciity is having a bike month, and sent out a nice article/newsletter about the benefits of commuting by bicycle for not only the employee, but also the employer.

Jessica, I'd ride any route, but I'd also try to find safer routes as soona s I could. i'm not familiar with your neighborhood, but i know that there are some dubious roads as you get further out. Perhaps also talk with your boss about adjusting your work hours. arriving before 7am, rather than 8 makes a huge diference in morning traffic.