Definitely still available. That segment of the industry has exploded. Another great manufacturer for touring/adventure bikes is Bombtrack.

Many touring/adventure bikes will double as way better commuter than a road bike I feel. They are set up for comfort, long hours in the saddle, and usually have with luggage mounts.

My 15 year old Surly Crosscheck is probably my most ridden bike - it was one of the 'first' gravel bikes (they've been making them for 20 years) before they really became a thing. The cantilever brakes are rubbish but that just makes it more fun.

If you haven't, and have the budget to do so, try a set of Paul Components mini motos. Fantastic brakes.

I have a bike with cantilevers too, I admire their robustness but yep, definitely not the quickest way to stop in a hurry.

I haven't had to pay attention to that market because my 2007 Surly is still going strong :)

Every Surly bike takes wide tires. Their Pugsley was the first mass-produced fat bike, starting back in 2005.

Fatties Fit Fine on most of their bikes.

I ride 40mm tires on my Long Haul Trucker.