While your existing bike is plenty good, it is definitely more fun to ride a road bike on the road. Puts a grin on your face and also encourages you to ride more. So from that point. And if you do go down that route, i'll recommend buying new - and getting atleast a basic fit from a good bike shop - as opposed to taking a chance with a used bike (unless you have a friend who can help set you up on the road bike).
Giant has a Contend and Revolt, each at $1000, and you should be able to get a reasonable discount on it (I believe all their bikes are made in Taiwan, not China - although i am sure it has some Chinese parts in it).
I am helping a friend get into cycling as well, at around a similar budget, and have suggested the same 2 models to him as well.