Welcome to TE!
I have a Trek 7.2FX that I've been very happy with. I've made it into my commuter, so I ride it the most often of my bikes. Before that, though, I rode it in charity rides, etc (up to 60 miles).
If you're worried about bumpiness, you could also consider bikes with chromoly steel frames (for example, Jamis Coda). I have a steel Jamis road bike (with a carbon fork) and it floats over bumpy roads. Jamis dealers aren't as common as dealers of the other brands you've mentioned, but if there's one in your area, Jamis might be worth a look--they tend to give you a decent amount of bike for the money.
Is it legal to ride on the sidewalk where you live? In many municipalities it is not, so if you're not sure, you may want to check! I know people get written tickets for that around here, but we also have a very well-established and accessible system of bike lanes & boulevards, and it really is more dangerous to ride on the sidewalk than the street.
'09 Jamis Satellite Femme | stock Jamis Road Sport -- road
'08 Trek 7.2FX | Terry Cite -- commuter
'77 Raleigh Grand Prix mixte | stock Brooks (vinyl) -- just for fun!