The union representing 45,000 striking U.S. dockworkers at East and Gulf coast ports has reached a deal to suspend a three-day strike until Jan. 15 to provide time to negotiate a new contract.

Conley Terminal, the main cargo port in South Boston, will re-open Friday morning, after dockworkers suspended their strike.

US dockworkers agreed to end a three-day strike that had paralyzed trade on the US East and Gulf coasts and threatened to become a factor in the presidential election.The International Longshoremen’s Association and the US Maritime Association extended their previous contract through Jan.