need oomph in the 30-60mph range

I live in a area with EXTREMELY short acceleration lanes on the interstate. My worn out 225 has to use all it has plus a prayer to get on the highway. I want a little more go, especially midrange go, without being too detrimental on daily driving.
The head is having 1.7 + 1.44 valves with a mild port/polish
I'm leaning toward using Oregon 819 grind cam
I want the block milled to get a true 8.6 CR
Clifford intake w/ a 350cfm 2bbl
I haven't decided dual exhaust via split manifold or 2.25" single
I want to keep the 2.76 rear
The trans needs a rebuild. Is there some thing I could do there to help? When I have my foot in it a passing gear engaged, it shifts to 3rd at 55mph. Should I try to keep it in 2nd longer? If so, how?